On February 3, 2026, the brothers of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three who was one of two U.S. citizens killed by federal immigration officers in Minneapolis, addressed a hearing held by congressional Democrats. This hearing aimed to highlight the violent incidents resulting from enforcement operations by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Ganger brothers, Luke and Brett, expressed their distress over their sister's death and called for congressional action regarding the violence that has been escalating on American streets due to immigration enforcement activities.
Good was shot and killed on January 7, 2026. Her death, alongside that of Alex Pretti, another protester who was killed just weeks later, has ignited widespread outrage across the nation. This tragic event has led to renewed calls for reform in immigration enforcement practices. During the congressional forum, which was organized by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Representative Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), the focus was on the use-of-force complaints against DHS officers involved in executing the Trump administration's mass deportation strategy.
In his speech, Luke Ganger emphasized the profound impact of their sister's death, describing the "deep distress" their family has endured from such a violent and unnecessary loss. Although he did not specify the exact changes they seek from Congress, he portrayed Renee's death as a pivotal moment that should drive immediate action regarding the immigration operations unfolding in Minneapolis. "The completely surreal scenes taking place on the streets of Minneapolis are beyond explanation," Luke remarked. He condemned the current climate as something that changes communities and lives permanently, including his own family's life.
The brothers shared heartfelt testimonies, often relying on each other for comfort as they recounted their sister's vibrant life. Luke noted that it was crucial for them to convey to the audience what a "beautiful American" they had lost—she was a sister, daughter, mother, partner, and friend. Brett Ganger, in a poignant moment, recited parts of the eulogy he delivered during Renee's funeral. He likened her spirit to dandelions that bloom beautifully in unexpected places, highlighting her optimistic belief that tomorrow could always be better than today and that kindness truly mattered in life.
In addition to the Ganger brothers, the panel featured testimonies from three other U.S. citizens who recounted their troubling interactions with Homeland Security officers. The overarching sentiment expressed at the hearing illustrated a deep public concern regarding the aggressive tactics employed by federal agents during immigration enforcement operations.
The Trump administration has defended its actions, alleging that Renee Good attempted to run over an officer with her vehicle. However, this characterization has been met with skepticism by state and local officials in Minneapolis, as well as by protesting community members. The Ganger brothers refrained from focusing on this narrative, choosing instead to honor their sister's legacy and advocate for change in immigration enforcement practices. Their emotional appeal highlighted the need for greater accountability and reform in federal law enforcement operations that intersect with community safety and human rights.
