The Trump administration announced Thursday (Feb. 12) that it was ending its two-month immigration enforcement campaign in Minnesota.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) led a massive operation that flooded the Twin Cities with 3,000 federal agents.
As a result of this operation, 4,000 people were arrested and two American citizens died.
Border czar Tom Homan confirmed from Minneapolis that a “significant withdrawal” was already underway.
He said most agents returned to their home bases or were deployed elsewhere.
There will be a small footprint left to close out what the administration has called “Operation Metro Surge.”
Homan said, “Thanks to our efforts here, Minnesota is now less of a sanctuary state for criminals. »
Earlier, Minnesota leaders strongly condemned the operation. Tim Walz described it as “an unprecedented federal invasion into every aspect of life.”
“The long road to recovery begins now, they have left us with deep damage, generational trauma. They have left us in some cases with economic ruin,” he added.
Minnesota officials remain skeptical.
Minneapolis City Council President Elliot Payne said, “I’ll believe it when I see it.” »
Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan echoed: “I won’t believe it until they’re actually gone.” »
They also criticize the fact that no announcement was made by the administration when it shut down similar operations in Los Angeles and Chicago last year.
Homan’s announcement also reaffirmed “that mass deportations are still on the table and will continue to be our goal,” and cooperation with local prisons has “actually improved our ability to enforce and deport foreigners with minimal visibility.”
