Anticipated End of Federal Immigration Crackdown in Minnesota

Wed Feb 11 2026 05:04:01 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Governor Tim Walz expresses optimism that the federal immigration operations in Minnesota will conclude imminently as he engages with top Trump administration officials.

Governor Tim Walz announced that he expects the federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota to end very soon, possibly within days. This follows discussions with key officials from the Trump administration. Despite his optimism, Walz noted that the situation could still change, stressing a need for transparency and trust with federal authorities as concerns persist over the implications of ongoing immigration enforcement on local communities.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Governor Tim Walz stated on Tuesday that he anticipates the federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota will conclude in days, not weeks and months, stemming from recent conversations with senior officials in the Trump administration.

During a press conference, Walz revealed that he spoke with border czar Tom Homan and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles about the situation in Minnesota, which has faced increased federal enforcement operations since early this year. Homan took charge of the Minnesota operation following incidents that incited public backlash regarding the use of deadly force by federal officers.

We’re very much in a trust but verify mode, said Walz. While he expressed hope that the federal crackdown is nearing its end, he acknowledged the potential for unforeseen developments.

In his remarks, Walz suggested that he hopes to see an announcement from Homan by Friday regarding the cessation of operations, expressing that the situation has felt like an occupation and an unjust retribution campaign.\

Officials from the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to inquiries regarding Walz’s assertions. Still, the governor expressed trust in Homan’s previous declaration that a substantial number of federal officers would be withdrawn from the state immediately, while recognizing that a significant presence remains.

The federal enforcement measures have raised severe concerns in Minnesota, particularly in communities impacted by fear and economic turmoil linked to the crackdown. Local business owners, like those in the restaurant sector, report anxiety among patrons and employees, greatly affecting overall economic activity in the region.

Moreover, Walz is hopeful for collaborative efforts moving forward, particularly on investigations regarding recent shootings involving federal officers, but details remain scarce as previous tensions between state investigators and federal authorities persist.

Despite the hopeful forecast, federal actions have continued in the meantime; a notable arrest occurred during the press conference in a public building, causing unrest among local officials and citizens alike. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty condemned ICE's use of local courthouses for immigration enforcement, calling it disruptive to justice.

Concerns linger over the implications of immigration enforcement tactics on community relations and public safety as Governor Walz and local officials continue to press for clarity and collaboration with federal agencies.