Anatomy of a Failed Moral Panic

 Roger Kimball discusses the aftermath of a shooting incident involving an ICE agent in Minneapolis that resulted in the death of a woman named Renée Nicole Good. He argues that the left attempted to incite protests similar to those following the George Floyd incident but was thwarted by video evidence and public dissent.

1. The Shooting Incident: Renée Nicole Good was shot by an ICE agent during a confrontation. Initial media narratives claimed she was an innocent victim, inciting outrage from some political leaders and the public.

2. Public Reaction: While there were some protests against ICE in various cities, the intensity of the backlash was less than anticipated. Factors influencing this included winter weather conditions and the racial dynamics surrounding the incident, as Good was a white woman.

3. Media Narratives and Dissenting Voices: Kimball notes that dissenting voices emerged, particularly from more moderate and law-abiding individuals, including some African Americans who rejected the narrative pushed by the media and some politicians. Critics pointed out inconsistencies in the outrage expressed over Good's death compared to the lack of outcry for victims of crimes committed by illegal immigrants.

4. Video Evidence: Footage from the incident indicated that Good was not simply an innocent victim; she had actively engaged with and potentially posed a threat to the ICE agent. This evidence undermined the narrative of her being an unjust victim.

5. Federal Response: Kimball argues that political leaders, particularly those aligned with Trump, remained resolute against left-wing pressures, which played a crucial role in preventing large-scale riots. Trump’s administration increased police presence in Minneapolis, signifying support for law enforcement.

6. Democratic Narrative: The article criticizes the Democratic response to the incident, suggesting that they prioritize support for illegal immigrants over the safety and rights of American citizens. Kimball claims this is reflective of a broader issue within the Democratic agenda.

7. Conclusion: Kimball concludes that the failed attempts to recreate the chaos of previous protests highlight a rift in public sentiment towards current law enforcement practices and immigration enforcement. The public's growing disillusionment with the left's narratives may hinder their ability to mobilize wide-scale protests.

Overall, Roger Kimball's article argues that the left's attempts to incite public outrage following the tragic shooting of Renée Good encountered significant obstacles due to conflicting evidence and public dissent. These factors, along with a determined federal response, prevented the formation of a new moral panic similar to that which erupted after George Floyd’s death. 

https://amgreatness.com/2026/01/11/anatomy-of-a-failed-moral-panic/