The speech resonated particularly with students and activists advocating for immigration reform and human rights.

Walz's comments reflect a broader trend among Democratic leaders who have increasingly vocalized their opposition to certain immigration enforcement measures under the Trump administration.

He argued that ICE's practices deny individuals the right to a fair trial, stating that without trials, it is impossible to verify their criminal status.

Walz highlighted Trump's immigration policies, including the deportation of suspected gang members to a notorious prison in El Salvador without due process, as evidence of the erosion of the rule of law.

Walz's speech included strong language aimed at Trump's immigration policies, emphasizing concerns about due process and human rights.

He warned that ICE's actions reflect a breakdown of the rule of law, echoing the founders' fears of tyranny and the persecution of vulnerable groups.

During a law school graduation speech on May 17, 2025, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz criticized Donald Trump, labeling him a 'tyrant' who undermines Americans' rights and the rule of law.

In a striking comparison, Walz likened ICE agents to the Gestapo, the infamous Nazi police known for their brutal tactics.

This speech comes amid a backdrop of Democratic frustration over the party's response to Trump since the November 2024 election, with ongoing debates about the party's direction.

In response to Walz's comments, the White House criticized his handling of civil unrest in Minnesota following George Floyd's death, reviving criticisms of his administration.

He also suggested that Trump was attempting to intimidate members of Congress, referencing a recent incident involving Democratic representatives at an ICE facility in Newark.

Walz criticized major law firms for enabling the Trump administration, labeling them as 'feckless' and urging graduates to reject employment with firms that compromise their ethical obligations.