Jan. 6 Provocateur Stabbed at Pro-ICE Rally in Minneapolis

Jake Lang, a right-wing provocateur known for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol attack, was reportedly stabbed during a pro-ICE rally in Minneapolis. The incident occurred outside Minneapolis City Hall, where Lang was leading an anti-immigration demonstration.

Incident Overview

On Saturday, Lang claimed on social media that he was attacked by a counterprotester. However, NBC News could not verify his account. The 30-year-old, who was pardoned for his actions related to January 6, was defending his position during a gathering of pro-ICE supporters.

Protest Dynamics

The rally attracted a significant counterprotester presence, escalating tensions dramatically. Lang and his supporters found themselves cornered against a recessed window of the City Hall building.

• Counterprotesters hurled water balloons and snowballs at Lang and his group.
• The temperature hovered near zero degrees Fahrenheit.

Background and Motivations

The demonstration’s heated atmosphere stemmed from recent local events, particularly the killing of Renee Nicole Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer. Many counterprotesters voiced their anger toward ICE’s operations.

Lang had previously announced a provocative plan to burn a Quran during the event but did not follow through. Instead, his group played songs, including the track “Ice Ice Baby”.

Community Reactions

Local sentiments were mixed at the rally. Some attendees, like Gary, a pro-ICE supporter, expressed strong support for immigration enforcement, emphasizing the need for increased operations by ICE. He voiced readiness to join federal officers.

In contrast, many counterprotesters emphasized Minnesota’s immigrant roots. Sara Steck, a participant against Lang’s rally, noted that her community should embrace diversity and not marginalize those who look or sound different.

Concerns and Observations

Despite the rally’s chaos, some attendees expressed pride in their state. Steck remarked on the resilience of Minnesotans amidst criticism of their weather and culture.

Artists and observers, like courtroom sketch artist Isabelle Brourman, captured the event, noting the heightened emotions surrounding the protests.

As tensions regarding immigration policy and community relations continue to rise, the Minneapolis protests underscore the deep divisions in public opinion regarding these critical issues.