Meet Tom Homan: Trump's 'border tsar' in Minneapolis

Wed Feb 04 2026 10:28:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Tom Homan is deployed by President Trump to oversee immigration enforcement in Minneapolis following a series of fatal incidents involving federal agents. A veteran of immigration policies, Homan is recognized for his efforts in mass deportation campaigns.

Tom Homan, a key figure in Trump's immigration strategy, has been deployed to Minneapolis to lead enforcement following two fatal shootings involving federal agents. Known for his extensive career in immigration enforcement, Homan's appointment comes as a part of the administration's ongoing mass deportation efforts despite concerns over aggressive tactics. His history with both Republican and Democratic administrations gives him a unique perspective on immigration policy, although activists remain apprehensive about potential outcomes.

US President Donald Trump has deployed his 'border tsar' Tom Homan to lead on-the-ground immigration enforcement in Minneapolis, following two US citizens being shot dead by federal agents in the city within a month. Homan is now the 'main point of contact on the ground,' stepping in to meet with city officials, as some border patrol agents are expected to leave the city.

At 64, Homan has spent decades working in immigration policy, recognized as a staunch supporter of Trump's deportation goals. A native of upstate New York, he commenced his career in law enforcement as a police officer before joining the border patrol in 1984. Homan has held various influential roles, including heading the Enforcement and Removal Operations arm of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Obama administration.

Despite his retirement plans being disrupted by Trump’s presidency, Homan has consistently been a vocal defender of the administration's immigration strategies, particularly against 'sanctuary cities' that do not comply with federal immigration efforts. While administrative changes like his shift to Minneapolis may signal an acknowledgment of public concerns, critics argue that his tenure is unlikely to change the administration's aggressive approach to immigration enforcement.

Gregory Bovino, Homan's predecessor, has drawn criticism for his controversial tactics, leading some to view this leadership switch as a necessary move amid mounting scrutiny. Yet, for many immigration activists, the differences between Homan and Bovino are minimal, as both represent a hardline stance on immigration that focuses on enforcement rather than reform.