The recent shooting of a nurse by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis has reignited debates on gun rights in the United States. Kyle Rittenhouse, a well-known Second Amendment supporter, made strong comments advocating that citizens should be allowed to carry firearms everywhere.
Rittenhouse’s Statement on Gun Rights
Kyle Rittenhouse, known for his involvement in past shootings and a vocal gun rights advocate, posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Carry everywhere. It is your right.”
He clarified that his statement was not specifically about the shooting of 37-year-old nurse Alex Pretti by ICE agents. Pretti was fatally shot earlier this month during a confrontation in Minneapolis.
Rittenhouse emphasized that he was not aware of making any comments directly about Pretti’s death.
Background of the Minneapolis Incident
Alex Pretti, a licensed gun owner, was shot by federal immigration agents during an encounter. Authorities reported that Pretti carried a weapon, but there is debate about whether he brandished it at officers.
Minnesota officials expressed concern over armed individuals at public events, with some claiming that carrying firearms at protests is dangerous and escalates conflict.
Political Reactions
Several political figures commented on the situation:
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Kristi Noem, former South Dakota Governor, criticized carrying weapons at protests, saying peaceful demonstrations should involve signs, not guns.
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Kash Patel, former FBI director, noted that armed protests are never truly peaceful and can threaten law enforcement safety.
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Donald Trump shared his opinion on Truth Social, highlighting Pretti’s gun, which stirred debate.
However, gun rights organizations, including the National Association for Gun Rights, condemned the Trump administration for blaming gun carrying for Pretti’s death, calling such statements dangerous and misleading.
Rittenhouse’s History with Firearms
Kyle Rittenhouse is widely known for the 2020 Wisconsin shooting, where he killed two people and injured another at age 17. After a lengthy trial, he was acquitted, claiming self-defense.
He has been active in promoting Second Amendment rights, voting for Donald Trump in 2024, citing Trump’s support for gun owners as a key factor. Previously, Rittenhouse had hesitated to support Trump due to disagreements on gun policies.
Gun Rights Debate in the U.S.
The Minneapolis incident highlights the ongoing debate on gun rights in America. Supporters argue that carrying guns is a legal right for self-protection. Critics warn that allowing firearms in public places can escalate violence and endanger civilians and law enforcement.
The discussion also reflects political divides, with the Trump-aligned camp emphasizing self-defense and MAGA supporters supporting gun rights, while other groups call for stricter gun regulations.
Conclusion
The ICE shooting of Alex Pretti and Rittenhouse’s call to “carry everywhere” has sparked a national debate on safety, law enforcement, and gun rights. While citizens are divided over what constitutes responsible gun ownership, events like these remind the world of the delicate balance between legal rights and public safety.
FAQs
Who is Kyle Rittenhouse?
He is a firearms instructor and gun rights advocate, known for the 2020 Wisconsin shooting where he killed two people and was acquitted on self-defense grounds.
What did Rittenhouse say about the Minneapolis shooting?
He encouraged people to “carry everywhere,” claiming it is their right, but said his statement was not directly about Alex Pretti’s death.
Who was Alex Pretti?
Alex Pretti was a 37-year-old nurse in Minneapolis who was fatally shot by federal immigration agents earlier in January 2026.
Why is this incident controversial?
The controversy surrounds whether Pretti threatened officers, the role of firearms at protests, and how political figures respond to gun violence.