The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has criticized Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota Board of Pardons for granting a pardon to Jai Vang, an illegal alien convicted of felony armed robbery. The pardon was announced on May 27, 2026, despite Vang having a final order of removal issued nearly three decades ago.
Vang, a Laotian national, has a criminal record that includes felony convictions for robbery and robbery of a business with a gun, alongside a conviction for driving under the influence of liquor. An Immigration Judge issued a final order for his removal on May 23, 1996, which was upheld by the Board of Immigration Appeals in May 1997.
DHS highlighted that Vang was subsequently released by the Clinton Administration following his appeal dismissal. The department's statement underscores concerns regarding the pardon of individuals with serious criminal histories who are subject to deportation orders.