Imagine this: a top state corrections official basically admitting that federal immigration enforcement is hamstrung not by rogue local sheriffs standing on principle, but by DHS’s own failure to secure basic judicial warrants. Minnesota DOC Commissioner Paul Schnell dropped this bombshell on NPR’s All Things Considered, explaining that sheriffs are eager to cooperate but can’t touch immigration detentions without a judge’s signature. Having judicial orders or detainers or holds that are signed by a judge would address this, Schnell said plainly. It’s a rare moment of candor from the bureaucratic swamp, highlighting how sanctuary-style roadblocks aren’t just about politics—they’re about DHS skipping due process shortcuts that no self-respecting lawman will touch.
For the 2A community, this is a flashing red light on the slippery slope of federal overreach. Sheriffs, those elected guardians of county lines and often staunch Second Amendment defenders, are drawing a hard line: no warrant, no dice. It’s the same constitutional backbone that keeps them from confiscating guns without proper judicial oversight during red flag escapades or ATF door-kicks. Think about it—Sheriff Richard Mack’s legacy with the Sheriff’s Declaration lives on here, reminding us that local law enforcement isn’t Uncle Sam’s errand boy. When DHS demands compliance sans warrant on illegals, it’s practicing for the day they pull the same on armed citizens under pretense of public safety. This Minnesota dust-up underscores why pro-2A patriots rally behind sheriffs who prioritize the Fourth Amendment over D.C. edicts.
The implications? A blueprint for resistance. As border chaos spills inward, expect more stateside clashes where judicial warrants become the new battleground. 2A advocates should amplify voices like Schnell’s—ironically from the left-leaning NPR perch—to expose federal laziness and bolster sheriff solidarity. If DHS can’t be bothered with judges for detainers, why trust them with your firearms registry dreams? Arm yourself with knowledge, support your local sheriff, and watch how this judicial accountability push fortifies the republic one warrant at a time.
