Progressive Politics

House Democrats have been privately advised by their leadership not to travel to Minnesota in support of anti-ICE protesters there, Axios has learned.

Why it matters: Several Democratic politicians have made the trek in recent days, including Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) and New York congressional candidates Brad Lander and Micah Lasher.

But in an email to Democratic congressional offices dated Monday, a copy of which was obtained by Axios, a senior staffer for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) urged members to remain in their districts for security reasons.
The guidance comes amid a heightened threat environment for members of Congress, including recent attacks on Reps. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) and Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.).

What they're saying: "In speaking with the [Minnesota] delegation offices and the Governor's team it has become clear that the best thing for Members to do right now is to support their MN colleagues by participating in the Days of Action in their home district this week," the staffer wrote.

"Visiting the state right now, although well intentioned, puts a burden on local resources and does not support our colleagues, the city and state government, local law enforcement and most importantly the people of Minneapolis."

The authenticity of the email was confirmed to Axios by two staffers who received it.

What we're hearing: That guidance has also been shared through informal channels, one House Democrat, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive internal conversations, told Axios.

"Minnesota elected officials cautioned members from going as it could add strain and overwhelm local law enforcement," the lawmaker said.