JD Vance criticized a shooting victim in a bold statement lacking evidence, labeling her as “brainwashed” and “radicalized” while holding her responsible for her own demise. The US Vice President expressed a desire to reduce tensions following the tragic incident involving Renee Good, who was shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. However, during a sudden press briefing at the White House, he accused the 37-year-old mother of three of intentionally attempting to run over the agent, who he claimed acted in self-defense, deeming her death a “tragedy of her own creation.”
This development followed claims by Donald Trump that the agent involved in the shooting had sustained injuries and sought medical treatment, despite video evidence showing him walking around the crime scene before driving away. When questioned about potentially influencing an ongoing inquiry, Trump dismissed any concerns. Despite presenting a narrative at odds with most outside the Trump administration, he insisted that his version of events was accurate, though footage suggests Good was trying to drive away from the agent when he shot at her.
Trump further alleged, without substantiation, that Good was affiliated with a “radical left network” obstructing ICE operations conducting noncitizen deportations. He asserted that she had been “brainwashed” and “radicalized,” despite reports indicating she was simply on her way home after dropping her child at school, with her ex-husband stating she had no history of activism.
In response to challenges regarding conflicting video evidence, Trump maintained his stance, claiming that viewing all angles made it clear Good’s vehicle was aimed at the agent. He criticized the media for not highlighting that the agent had previously been struck by cars twice, though his identity remained undisclosed.
Trump’s insistence continued as he justified the agent’s actions, claiming Good accelerated toward him after being shot, a claim contradicted by footage showing her car speeding up after being hit. He defended the shooter and criticized media portrayals of Good as innocent. When pressed about who orchestrated the alleged brainwashing of Good, Trump evaded a direct answer, hinting that it was a matter to be resolved.
The Homeland Security Secretary confirmed that local law enforcement would not be involved in the investigation, citing a lack of jurisdiction in Minnesota and delegating the probe solely to the FBI under the oversight of Trump appointee Kash Patel.