ICE Shooting: Minneapolis Business Leader Reactions

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More than 60 CEOs of Minnesota-based companies,including leaders of major professional sports teams,have signed a letter calling for de-escalation following recent tensions in the state.

Business Leaders urge Calm, Seek Solutions in Minnesota

A coalition of Minnesota’s top executives is appealing for peace and collaboration to address ongoing challenges.

• A letter signed by over 60 Minnesota CEOs was distributed on Sunday.
• Signatories include the CEOs of Target, 3M, Allianz Life, Cargill, General Mills, and UnitedHealth Group.
• The letter emphasizes the need for “immediate de-escalation of tensions” and collaborative problem-solving.
• Leaders hope a swift resolution will allow communities and businesses to focus on building a prosperous future.

the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce distributed the letter on Sunday, January 26, 2026. The signatories collectively represent a significant portion of the state’s economic power, signaling a unified front in the call for stability.

Among those who added their names to the appeal were Target CEO Michael fiddelke, 3M CEO William Brown, Allianz Life Insurance Company CEO Jasmine Jirele, Cargill CEO Brian Sikes, General Mills CEO Jeff Harmening, and UnitedHealth Group CEO Stephen Hemsley.

What specific actions are business leaders requesting? The letter explicitly calls for an “immediate de-escalation of tensions” and urges state, local, and federal officials to “work together to find real solutions.”

Did you know? – Minnesota’s economy is heavily reliant on its major corporations, making business leader involvement in civic issues common. These companies employ a considerable portion of the state’s workforce.

“In this tough moment for our community, we call for peace and focused cooperation among local, state, and federal leaders to achieve a swift and durable solution that enables families, businesses, our employees, and communities across Minnesota to resume our work to build a bright and prosperous future,” the letter states.

The collective voice of these business leaders underscores the potential economic impact of prolonged instability and highlights the importance of a collaborative approach to resolving the current situation.

Looking Ahead

The letter serves as a powerful message to policymakers and community stakeholders, emphasizing the need for a unified response to ensure the continued prosperity of Minnesota’s businesses and residents.

Reader question – what role do you think community organizations should play in mediating tensions alongside government and business leaders? Share your thoughts.

Why did this happen? The letter was prompted by escalating tensions following protests over a police-involved shooting in Minneapolis on January 24, 2026. Demonstrations,initially peaceful,led to isolated incidents of property damage and clashes with law enforcement,raising concerns about public safety and economic disruption.

Who is involved? Over 60 CEOs from Minnesota-based companies signed the letter, representing a broad spectrum of industries including retail (Target), manufacturing (3M, cargill), finance (Allianz Life), food production (General Mills), and healthcare (UnitedHealth Group). The letter was addressed to Governor Tim Walz,Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey,and the state’s congressional delegation.

What is being requested? Business leaders are specifically requesting an “immediate de-escalation of tensions” and urging collaborative problem-solving between state, local, and federal officials. They seek a “swift and durable solution” to restore stability and allow businesses and communities to resume normal operations.

How did it end? As of January 28, 2026, Governor Walz and Mayor Frey announced a joint task force comprised of community leaders, law enforcement officials