FBI Director Patel opens investigation into Signal groups tracking ICE agents in Minnesota

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the FBI had opened an investigation into encrypted Signal group chats that Minnesota residents were using to share information about ICE vehicle locations and license plate numbers in late January 2026. Patel acknowledged the investigation was prompted by a post from conservative journalist Cam Higby claiming to have infiltrated the groups. First Amendment experts immediately noted that observing public officials and sharing that information is generally protected speech, with one expert stating the Signal posts appeared to constitute activity fully protected by the First Amendment.