“I support the originally stated goals of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s operation, locating and deporting the ‘worst of the worst,’” Madel said in a video on X. “But Operation Metro Surge has expanded far beyond its stated focus on true public safety threats.” 

His resignation comes after news that a Border Patrol agent fatally shot Alex Pretti. Pretti died in a physical confrontation that began when he intervened in an immigration operation he had been recording on his phone. 

Madel condemned federal immigration tactics, calling them “unconstitutional,” and said U.S. citizens, particularly people of color, are living in fear and carrying paperwork to prove their citizenship. “That’s wrong,” he said.

Madel, a Minneapolis trial lawyer, rose quickly in GOP straw polls since launching his campaign in December. He positioned himself as a staunch defender of law enforcement and conservative views. 

Madel drew attention for providing legal counsel to ICE officer Jonathan Ross, who fatally shot Renee Good earlier this month. 

In addition to his criticism of immigration operations in Minnesota, Madel said his second reason for resigning is that the national Republican Party has made it impossible for a GOP candidate to win in the state. 

“The reality is that the national Republicans have made it nearly impossible for a Republican to win a state-wide election in Minnesota,” Madel said Monday.

While he voiced his frustrations about Operation Metro Surge, he also pointed to GOP leaders at the state level who have contributed to the inability to elect a Republican governor. 

“Minnesota House leadership, including two of the Republican candidates for governor, have done nothing to properly investigate Minnesota fraud,” Madel said. “[They have] asked the federal government to do their jobs … the remedy for bad government is not more government.” 

Madel made it clear he is a supporter of President Donald Trump on other fronts, praising his actions in Gaza and credit card interest caps. 

With Madel’s departure, the Republican field now includes Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, conservative activist Mike Lindell, former state Sen. Scott Jensen, state Rep. Kristin Robbins, and business leader Kendall Qualls. 

HILL REPUBLICANS RAISE CONCERN OVER SECOND FATAL SHOOTING IN MINNEAPOLIS: ‘DISTURBING’

On the Democratic side, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) has filed paperwork to run for Minnesota governor following Tim Walz’s decision not to seek a third term. Given her high profile, she’s not expected to face any serious primary challengers.  

Madel said in his video statement that his decision not to run has “nothing to do with” Klobuchar’s decision to enter the race.