I agree that he shouldn't have said that, but there's no reason to 'make a federal case out of' it. [='make a big deal about it']
Do you have to 'make a federal case out of' it every time I come home late?
Local police sought help from the 'federals'. [=(less formally) 'feds']
(..) go do it yourself. I can't. My wife and son hate me. They won't take my money. Even if they did, the federal government wouldn't let them. But two rich benefactors, who are known for their charitable endeavors, who would think nothing (..)2013 TvShow: Breaking Bad Title: Felina Season: 5 Episode 16