Patagonia CEO Urges Congress to Halt ICE Funding, Citing Civilian Deaths and Militarization

Patagonia Inc. CEO Ryan Gellert on January 29, 2026, called on U.S. lawmakers to block additional funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), citing lethal federal operations and the “militarization of our cities.” The outdoor retailer sent letters to senators in key states, accusing ICE of enabling violence against vulnerable communities. Gellert demanded congressional accountability, stating funding cuts could force policy reform to protect civilians. His remarks follow two recent killings by federal agents during Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis — including an ICU nurse subdued while kneeling. Over 60 Minnesota-based firms, including Target (TGT), General Mills (GIS), and Best Buy (BBY), issued a joint Jan. 25 letter urging de-escalation. Target’s incoming CEO Michael Fiddelke acknowledged the community trauma in an internal Jan. 26 message.