Tensions Rise in Minnesota Amid Immigration Enforcement Changes

Tue Feb 03 2026 15:49:56 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Tom Homan, President Trump’s border czar, emphasizes a tough stance on immigration enforcement in Minnesota following the recent fatal shooting of a protester.

Amid ongoing protests following the shooting of a protester by a federal immigration officer, Tom Homan stated there would only be reductions in immigration enforcement in Minnesota after cooperation from local officials. He also stressed a 'zero tolerance' policy for violence against law enforcement and called for local jails to assist ICE in their operations. Homan aims for targeted enforcement focusing on public safety threats, asserting that he will remain in the state until the situation is resolved.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — President Donald Trump’s border czar Tom Homan said Thursday that the number of immigration enforcement officers in Minnesota will be reduced only after cooperation from state officials, and that he has 'zero tolerance' for protesters who assault his officers or impede their work.

Homan addressed reporters for the first time since the president sent him to Minneapolis after a federal immigration officer fatally shot a protester on Saturday.

He stressed that local jails need to alert Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to individuals in custody who can be removed from the country, arguing that this method is safer for officers and more effective in enforcing immigration laws.

Homan stated, 'Give us access to illegal aliens, public safety threats in the safety and security of a jail.'

Despite admitting that previous immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota have had challenges, he reiterated that the administration is committed to its mission of enforcing immigration laws.

Homan highlighted the importance of 'targeted operations' to capture immigrants who have committed crimes, focusing on maintaining public safety amid increasing tensions.

As he meets with local officials and law enforcement leaders, Homan aims to find common ground and insists he will continue his efforts until the situation in Minnesota is resolved.