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Federal agents spied on anti-ICE protesters
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
DHS ran 'Operation Puppet Master' spying on anti-ICE protesters in Minnesota. The surveillance targeted lawful dissent, raising civil liberties concerns.
Background
The surveillance came after federal agents killed Alex Pretti in Minneapolis in January 2026, sparking protests. DHS launched undercover operations to infiltrate and monitor groups opposing ICE, including labor unions and left-wing organizations, as part of a broader crackdown on dissent.
How it unfolded
- Jan 18, 2026Anti-ICE protest held inside a church in St. Paul, Minnesota; Don Lemon attended.
- Jan 24, 2026Federal agents fatally shot Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, prompting protests.
- Jan 29, 2026Don Lemon arrested in Los Angeles in connection with the Jan. 18 protest.
- Mar 28, 2026Federal agents trailed at least three defendants to the No Kings march in Minneapolis.
- Aug 13, 2026Court records reveal 'Operation Puppet Master' and other surveillance operations; documents filed in federal court.
Who’s saying what
- Defense
- Attorney Kevin Riach said he was 'shocked at the scope and the apparent lack of investigative discipline involved.'
- Prosecution
- The Justice Department argued the surveillance was part of an investigation into a conspiracy to finance domestic terrorism.
Still unverified
The existence of 'Project Keyhole' is mentioned in court records but no details are provided.