Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reacted sharply during an interview on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” when questioned about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Jonathan Ross, who fatally shot Renee Good in Minneapolis earlier this month. The incident has sparked widespread controversy, with critics demanding accountability for Ross’s actions.
When CBS News host Margaret Brennan mentioned Ross’s name, Noem interjected, “Well, don’t say his name!” She expressed concern for the safety of law enforcement officers, highlighting a reported increase in death threats against them. “For heaven’s sake, we should have people continue to dox law enforcement when they have an 8,000% increase in death threats against them,” Noem stated.
According to eyewitness accounts reported by Minnesota Public Radio, the shooting occurred after Good’s vehicle was surrounded by ICE agents, some of whom commanded her to “drive away” while others insisted she “get out of her car.” This conflicting direction led to chaos, with Ross ultimately discharging his weapon three times. He had reportedly positioned himself directly in front of Good’s vehicle, a move contradicted by guidelines from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that instructed agents to avoid unsafe positions during vehicle extractions.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting have ignited calls for Ross to face murder charges. The Trump administration, however, has staunchly defended his actions, with Noem among his most vocal supporters. During the interview, Brennan pointed out that Ross’s name is public, to which Noem replied, “I know, but that doesn’t mean it should continue to be said.” She emphasized that Ross was attacked by Good’s vehicle, which she claimed posed a threat to his life, and expressed concern for the safety of Ross and his family following the incident.
The shooting of Renee Good has become a flashpoint in the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and the role of law enforcement agencies in contentious situations. As the investigation continues, the responses from both critics and supporters of Ross highlight the deep divisions surrounding law enforcement practices in the United States.
