New York, NY – It was a decision guaranteed to ignite outrage, and ProPublica knew it. In the middle of a volatile national debate over immigration enforcement and federal authority, the nonprofit newsroom chose to publicly identify the federal agents involved in a fatal shooting, pouring gasoline on an already raging fire.

On January 24, 2026, Alex Pretti was shot and killed during an anti immigration enforcement protest in Minneapolis. Ten shots were fired in less than five seconds. The shooting occurred amid Operation Metro Surge, a federal deployment of immigration agents to urban areas that has drawn intense public opposition and repeated demonstrations. Days later, ProPublica published a story naming the Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection agents who fired the shots.

We will not repeat those names here. We will not contribute to a situation that places federal agents and their families at heightened risk of harassment, threats, or violence.

The ProPublica story was authored by reporter J. David McSwane (202-556-3836), who, unlike the agents he identified, voluntarily used his own name. He also voluntarily publishes his contact information. ProPublica defended the decision in a public note from its editors, arguing that disclosing the agents’ identities served the public interest and promoted accountability. According to the outlet, officials had not released key information quickly enough, and anonymity, they argued, shielded those involved from scrutiny.

That justification has not satisfied critics across the country, particularly given the timing and political climate surrounding the case. The agents involved were placed on administrative leave, and the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division opened an investigation into the shooting. Those processes were already underway when ProPublica chose to publish the names.

The shooting itself unfolded in the early morning hours on Nicollet Avenue. Pretti, a 37 year old nurse and military veteran, arrived at the protest site as federal agents were conducting immigration related arrests. Video footage shows Pretti holding a phone and recording officers as they interacted with civilians. A confrontation followed.

According to publicly available video timelines, Pretti was pepper sprayed, pulled into the street, and restrained by multiple federal agents. During the struggle, a firearm was present. Moments later, shots were fired. Pretti was struck multiple times and pronounced dead at the scene.

Federal officials stated that Pretti was armed and that agents fired their weapons during a struggle while carrying out their duties. Forensic audio analysis later confirmed that ten shots were discharged in under five seconds. The precise sequence of actions and decisions leading to the shooting remains under investigation by federal authorities.

What is not under investigation is ProPublica’s editorial choice. By naming the agents while emotions were raw and protests ongoing, the outlet ensured that the focus would shift away from institutional review and toward individual targeting. That shift was immediate.

Social media reaction to the story was fierce. Some praised ProPublica for what they described as courageous transparency. Others warned that the publication had effectively doxxed law enforcement officers in the middle of a national political firestorm. One widely shared post accused the reporter of placing “a target” on the agents and their families. The debate quickly devolved into ideological trench warfare.

This is not an abstract concern. In recent years, law enforcement officers across the country have faced harassment, threats, and attacks following the release of personal information online. Families, spouses, and children often bear the brunt of that exposure, despite having no connection to the incidents in question.

ProPublica maintains that accountability requires identification. But accountability in the American system is not crowdsourced outrage. It is established through investigations, evidence, and due process. Those mechanisms were already in motion. Publishing names did nothing to advance the investigations themselves. It did, however, amplify public pressure and personal risk.

This moment underscores a troubling trend in modern journalism. Activist outlets increasingly blur the line between reporting and advocacy, treating exposure as an end in itself. In doing so, they often dismiss the real-world consequences of their choices, particularly when those consequences fall on people deemed politically acceptable targets.

The death of Alex Pretti is serious and tragic. It deserves a full accounting, grounded in facts and resolved through lawful processes. Federal agents, like any other government actors, must be held to the same legal standards. But they are also entitled to due process and basic personal safety.

By choosing to name the agents before investigations are complete, ProPublica did not simply report on the story. It became part of it. And in doing so, the outlet raised a question that now hangs over its own newsroom: when journalism knowingly endangers lives, who holds the journalists accountable?

College Station, TX – Texas A&M University witnessed a symbolic moment today as Mark A. Welsh III exited the Administration Building, officially resigning from his post as university president. For many in the conservative community, this departure is not just a personnel change—it’s a long-overdue course correction.

A Presidency Marked by Controversy

Welsh’s tenure was marred by ideological clashes and donor discontent. Critics say he failed to uphold the university’s core values of integrity, respect, and tradition, instead allowing progressive ideologies to take root in faculty ranks and student affairs. His defense of controversial professors and alleged attempts to silence dissenting students drew sharp rebuke from alumni and conservative watchdogs.

One viral reply summed up the mood: “Woke ideology needs to be rooted out root and stem. He failed at doing so and defended the woke professors peddling propaganda over the students”.

Donor Exodus and Cultural Drift

Under Welsh’s leadership, Texas A&M reportedly lost key financial supporters who felt the institution was drifting from its mission. The erosion of trust between the administration and its conservative base—students, parents, and donors alike—culminated in calls for Welsh’s resignation. Many viewed his departure as a necessary step to restore accountability and realign the university with its founding principles.

Grassroots Pressure Pays Off

The reaction online was swift and celebratory. “Goodbye and good riddance. Took them long enough,” wrote one user, echoing the sentiment of many who felt ignored by the administration for too long. Others framed the resignation as a win against what they called “transgender indoctrination” and “woke propaganda,” demanding that taxpayer dollars no longer fund ideological experimentation on campus.

What Comes Next

Welsh’s resignation opens the door for a new chapter at Texas A&M—one that many hope will prioritize academic excellence, viewpoint diversity, and respect for tradition. The next president will face intense scrutiny, not just from faculty and students, but from a politically engaged public determined to keep the university grounded in its values.

For conservatives, this moment is more than a resignation—it’s a reminder that institutions can be held accountable, and that cultural course corrections are possible when voices unite.

Fate City Hall, September 16, 2023 – Fate, Texas is gearing up for its annual community extravaganza, the “Celebrate Fate” event, set to take place this Saturday, September 16th, beginning at 5 p.m. at Fate City Hall, located at 1900 CD Boren Parkway.

What started in 2014 as a way to unite neighbors and foster a strong sense of community has now blossomed into a much-anticipated event that attracts residents and visitors alike. The event promises a night filled with live music, delectable food and drink options, a dazzling fireworks finale, and even an after-party.

Community Unity

Celebrate Fate is a testament to the power of community spirit. It was born out of a desire to bring Fate’s residents closer together and has successfully done so for nearly a decade. This event not only showcases the vibrancy of the city but also serves as a platform for residents to come together, make new friends, and strengthen their bonds.

Foodie Paradise

Food enthusiasts are in for a treat as a diverse lineup of food trucks and vendors will be on-site, offering a delectable array of culinary delights. From Cheros Latin Kitchen to JBW Vending LLC, there will be something to satisfy every palate. Whether you crave lobster rolls from Cousins Maine Lobster or want to indulge in some BBQ goodness from Joe’s Backyard BBQ, you won’t leave hungry. And don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with treats from TM Ice Cream and Wetzels Truck DFW.

Groove to the Music

Live music enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that “The Dick Beldings” will be taking the stage from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the Maaco America’s Bodyshop Main Stage. This 90’s cover band promises to keep the energy high and the crowd rocking with their renditions of beloved songs.

A Spectacular Finale

As the night unfolds, the skies over Fate will light up with a breathtaking fireworks display, presented by Hunt Regional Healthcare. The fireworks finale is always a highlight of Celebrate Fate and is sure to leave attendees in awe.

After Party Extravaganza

But the celebration doesn’t end with the fireworks. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of Marigold ABA Therapy Center, there will be an after-party featuring a screening of “The Sandlot.” It’s a perfect way to wind down the evening and relive some classic moments from this beloved movie.

Parking and Contact Information

For those planning to attend, bike parking will be available in the front parking lot of City Hall. Vehicle and golf cart parking can be found at various locations, including the empty lots north of City Hall and several nearby schools.

For more information about Celebrate Fate, feel free to contact Ashley Martin or Shelbi Stofer at Fate City Hall. This year’s event promises to be a memorable night of fun, food, and community spirit, so mark your calendars and get ready to Celebrate Fate!