Short Description
Tulsi Gabbard condemns an anti-ICE protest at a church in Minnesota, sparking a national debate about religious freedom and immigration policies.
Read Time
3 minutes 45 seconds
Main Article
In a significant incident at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard condemned an anti-ICE protest that disrupted a worship service. This disruption occurred on January 18, 2026, when a group of demonstrators entered the church chanting slogans and displaying signs related to immigration enforcement. Gabbard described the protesters’ actions as “demoniac,” arguing that such behavior exemplifies a growing hostility towards religious expression in US politics.
According to Gabbard, the primary motivation for her departure from the Democratic Party in 2022 stemmed from what she characterizes as an increasing antagonism against faith. The protest has prompted her to call for accountability and condemnation of the actions taken by the demonstrators, labeling the disruption as an affront to the fundamental right to worship freely. In her view, the incident underscores a troubling trend where political activism intrudes upon sacred spaces, like churches—a viewpoint that resonates with many supporters advocating for religious freedom.
In the aftermath of the protest, the U.S. Department of Justice initiated an investigation to determine potential violations of federal laws designed to protect religious freedom. This includes examining whether the protesters’ actions violated civil rights statutes aimed at preventing intimidation within places of worship. The widespread nature of this incident has sparked differing opinions. Gabbard’s supporters see the disruption as a significant escalation of intolerance, while critics urge that the context of public anger surrounding immigration and ICE raids cannot be dismissed.
As tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and religious freedom grow, this confrontation at Cities Church has intensified discussions about how political discourse should be conducted, especially in sensitive environments where faith is practiced. The incident represents a flashpoint in the ongoing national dialogue about immigration policies and their social implications, highlighting the challenges faced by communities caught in the crossfire of heated political debates.
Short Summary
Former DNI Tulsi Gabbard condemned an anti-ICE protest at a Minnesota church, citing it as a violation of religious freedom. This event has fueled ongoing discussions about immigration and the intersection of faith and politics in America.

