A pro-ICE rally led by conservative influencer and January 6 rioter Jake Lang spiralled into chaos in Minneapolis on Sunday after a large group of counter-protesters confronted and chased away the demonstrators, leaving Lang injured and claiming he was violently attacked.
The incident unfolded amid weeks of tension in Minnesota, where protests have intensified following the death of Renee Good earlier this month. What began as a small far-right gathering quickly turned into a flashpoint, highlighting the deep political and social divisions playing out across the state.
What Happened at Jake Lang’s Pro-ICE Protest in Minneapolis?
Jake Lang arrived in Minneapolis to lead a pro-ICE, anti-Islam, and anti-Somali demonstration that he promoted heavily on social media. Ahead of the event, Lang sparked outrage by announcing plans to “burn a Quran” on the steps of City Hall, a statement that drew sharp backlash and mobilised hundreds of counter-protesters.
Visuals from the scene showed Lang’s group outnumbered within minutes. Counter-protesters flooded the area, shouting slogans and forcing the far-right demonstrators to retreat. Videos circulating online later showed Lang leaving the area with visible injuries, including bruises and cuts on his head.
‘I Was Just Literally Lynched’: Lang’s Claim After the Attack
Soon after the incident, Lang posted a dramatic account of what he said happened during the protest.
“I just got stabbed by a crazy white commie leftist rioter today in Minnesota…I was just literally lynched by an anti-white mob of liberals & illegal immigrants- I’m at the hospital now getting staples in my skull.. Nearly ripped limb from limb in Minneapolis!” he wrote on X.
Authorities have not publicly confirmed the nature or severity of Lang’s injuries. Online accounts vary, with some users disputing his version of events while others shared images showing him bloodied after the confrontation.
Why Are Protests Escalating Across Minnesota?
Minnesota has seen sustained protests over the past month, with anger intensifying after the January 7 death of Renee Good. Demonstrations have grown increasingly volatile, prompting a heavy federal presence across Minneapolis and nearby areas.
Armed federal officials in tactical gear now patrol protest zones as clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement continue. Many protesters accuse authorities of excessive force, while officials cite security concerns and public safety.
Who Is Jake Lang?
Jake Lang rose to national attention after participating in the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot. Prosecutors accused him of assaulting a police officer with a baseball bat and engaging in civil disorder. Despite facing multiple charges, Lang never stood trial after receiving clemency under a sweeping presidential pardon last year.
Since his release, Lang has reinvented himself as a conservative influencer, building a sizable online following through anti-immigration and hardline political messaging. He frequently describes himself as a victim of political persecution and has leaned into provocative rhetoric to draw attention.
Lang recently announced plans to run for the US Senate from Florida, positioning himself as a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump and a vocal supporter of aggressive immigration enforcement.
Political Fallout and Growing Polarisation
The violent disruption of Lang’s rally underscores how combustible political activism has become in parts of the US. While Lang and his supporters portray the incident as an attack on free speech, critics argue his rhetoric deliberately incites hostility and endangers communities.
As Minnesota remains on edge, Sunday’s clash adds to fears that political demonstrations could spiral further into violence. With both sides mobilising supporters online, officials face mounting pressure to prevent future confrontations from turning deadly.
