The Trump administration has initiated the withdrawal of 700 Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from Minnesota, indicating a strategic adjustment in federal immigration enforcement. The announcement was made by Border czar Tom Homan, who stated that the action represents a shift in tactics rather than a change in the administration's border policy.
The decision comes after a period marked by protests, economic challenges in the Twin Cities area, and intensified dialogues between state and local authorities and federal immigration officials. The federal law enforcement personnel reduction will leave approximately 2,000 officers, significantly down from the peak numbers seen during the operation.
Originally, before the expansion known as Operation Metro Surge, ICE had about 150 agents in Minnesota. The surge was a response to violent incidents, including the fatal shooting of a protester, which led to a substantial increase in law enforcement presence.
During a press conference in Minneapolis, Homan underscored that the drawdown is a result of better coordination with local governments, particularly due to their willingness to inform ICE prior to releasing inmates eligible for deportation. This collaboration allows for a more targeted approach to custody transfers in secure environments, reducing the need for widespread residential arrests.
Homan, with the support of President Trump, expressed a desire to completely end the surge as soon as possible. He did caution, however, that any further reductions in federal presence would depend on the cessation of threats, obstruction, and violence against ICE officers and their federal partners. Agents specializing in security and hostile-incident response will remain stationed in the state.
The operation's intensity increased following altercations between federal agents and organized anti-ICE protesters. After a federal judge lifted a temporary restraining order related to the investigation, Democratic lawmakers continued to raise concerns about potential misconduct within the administration.
Paul Schnell, the Minnesota Department of Corrections Commissioner, confirmed that discussions with federal officials had been ongoing. He had previously raised issues regarding the presence of agents at bus stops and apartment complexes, calling for a concentrated focus on individuals posing a threat to public safety.
Economic impacts have also been reported by local officials. In Brooklyn Park, for instance, heightened enforcement activity led to reduced public movement, with some businesses experiencing revenue declines up to 50 percent. Despite these claims, Homan defended the operation, stating that the removal of criminal illegal aliens ultimately enhances long-term community safety.
Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have described the reduction as a move towards de-escalation, yet they continue to advocate for quicker drawdowns and further inquiries into recent fatal incidents involving federal agents. While acknowledging the progress, Walz emphasized the necessity of additional measures to restore regional stability.
Although the partial withdrawal has been confirmed, Homan made it clear that federal authorities will maintain a presence in Minnesota. Future adjustments will hinge on sustained cooperation from state and local governments, as well as the evolving situation on the ground. This indicates that immigration enforcement will persist as a key focus for the administration.
