Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, widely known as AOC, has voiced strong support for the nationwide “National Shutdown” anti‑ICE protest — calling for people across the U.S. to halt work, school, and shopping — but she said her congressional office will stay open to serve the community amid growing protests over fatal federal immigration enforcement shootings in Minnesota.
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The “National Shutdown” campaign is urging people across the U.S. to stay home from work and school on Friday to protest ICE and Border Patrol practices. Organizers say economic and social pressure is the best way to highlight what they describe as harmful immigration enforcement tactics.
The call comes after two deadly incidents in Minneapolis. On January 24, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, was shot and killed while recording a federal immigration operation. Earlier, on January 7, ICE officer Renee Good was killed during an encounter. These deaths sparked protests in Minneapolis and other cities, including Los Angeles, where demonstrators carried signs and demanded changes to enforcement practices.
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Activists say ICE is creating fear in communities by detaining people and disrupting neighborhoods. AOC has voiced strong support for the shutdown, framing it as a national call for unity and resistance, while also criticizing aggressive enforcement tactics in her past statements.
AOC Offers Full Support but Keeps Office Open
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, often referred to as AOC, addressed the shutdown plans through social media. AOC said she fully supports national protests, general strikes, and large-scale movements aimed at challenging ICE and immigration enforcement policies.
However, AOC clearly stated that her congressional office would not shut down on Friday. In an Instagram post, AOC explained that her office handles critical work for the community, including immigration-related cases.
She said many families rely on her office for help with paperwork, legal guidance, and urgent concerns related to immigration. Closing the office, AOC said, would interrupt that support at a time when people need it most.
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AOC emphasized transparency by saying “full disclosure” before explaining her decision. She noted that remaining open allows her staff to continue defending immigrant families and assisting constituents.
While declining to participate directly in the shutdown, AOC repeated her support for mass mobilizations and public demonstrations. Her message was framed as backing the cause while choosing a different form of action.
Her stance reflects a balance between public protest and day-to-day responsibilities as a lawmaker. Supporters of AOC say keeping her office open ensures direct help continues, while critics argue that stronger participation could send a more powerful message.
Protests, Political Reaction, and Public Debate
The shutdown campaign and AOC’s comments come amid intense debate over immigration enforcement. The Trump administration’s tactics in Minnesota have faced criticism from Democratic lawmakers and immigrant groups, including AOC, who has been outspoken on aggressive ICE operations.
Some Senate Democrats have threatened to block funding for the Department of Homeland Security in response to the shootings, raising concerns about a potential government standoff over immigration policy. Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota has also voiced criticism, highlighting tensions during a chaotic town hall meeting in Minneapolis.
Recent demonstrations show large crowds holding signs and chanting against ICE, with many protesters saying the shootings have caused fear and anger in immigrant communities. AOC has emphasized that this fear underscores the human cost of enforcement policies.
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The Department of Homeland Security has defended its agents, saying they acted in self-defense, but activists continue to demand accountability. Media coverage of the shutdown highlights national divisions, with ICE supporters arguing agents enforce the law, while critics, including AOC, call current practices aggressive and dangerous.
The “National Shutdown” campaign continues to grow online, encouraging people to share messages, post signs, and participate. As Friday approaches, cities across the U.S. are preparing for protests, walkouts, and reduced activity, with local governments monitoring the events closely.