LETTER: ICE whitewash would further erode trust in government

To Ozaukee Press:

The killing of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis last week was a tragedy that demands transparency and accountability. Video footage—including from the shooter’s own camera—shows Good being shot and killed with the officer at no point at any risk.

Yet, Trump supporters continue to claim the evidence shows something else.

That insistence only deepens public mistrust. Worse, Trump supporters seem to be celebrating her death.

Compounding the concern is the FBI taking over exclusive control of the investigation, cutting out Minnesota authorities. When a federal agency investigates one of its own under intense political pressure, skepticism is inevitable. If this results in a whitewash, the damage will extend well beyond this case.

Public confidence in ICE has already declined sharply over the past year, with approval now underwater even before this incident is factored in. If accountability is avoided here, or if similar incidents occur again, that erosion will accelerate.

The Trump administration wants Americans to fear immigrants. Increasingly, however, people are becoming afraid of ICE itself. That is a dangerous inversion in a democracy governed by the rule of law.

To the GOP and MAGA movement: Is this truly how you want to be seen?

Keith R. Schmitz

Milwaukee