U.S. Homeland Security Investigates Alleged Anti-Semitic Comments by Former Immigration Official

Gregory Bovino, who led Trump-era immigration sweeps, accused of disparaging remarks about Jewish faith of U.S. attorney

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has opened an internal investigation into allegations that Gregory Bovino, a former senior Customs and Border Protection official who oversaw high-profile immigration enforcement operations, made disparaging comments about the Jewish faith of a U.S. attorney in Minnesota. The investigation follows reports that Bovino allegedly complained about the U.S. attorney's observance of the Sabbath and used the term "chosen people" in a derogatory manner during a phone call.

Why it matters

The allegations against Bovino raise concerns about potential anti-Semitism and religious discrimination within the upper ranks of the federal immigration enforcement apparatus under the Trump administration. The investigation also comes amid broader scrutiny of Homeland Security's use-of-force policies following controversial incidents involving federal agents in Minnesota.

The details

According to reports, during a January 12 phone call to coordinate a meeting about deploying immigration agents in the Minneapolis area, Bovino allegedly complained that U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota Daniel N. Rosen was unreachable for part of the weekend due to observing the Sabbath. Bovino is also accused of using the term "chosen people" in a disparaging way and questioning whether "Orthodox criminals" take the Sabbath off work.

  • The alleged comments were made during a January 12 phone call.
  • Homeland Security opened the internal investigation following a letter from a Congressman inquiring about the reports.

The players

Gregory Bovino

A former senior Customs and Border Protection official who led the Trump administration's high-profile immigration enforcement operations, including in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New Orleans.

Daniel N. Rosen

The U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota, whose Jewish faith was allegedly disparaged by Bovino.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency that oversees Customs and Border Protection and has opened an internal investigation into Bovino's alleged comments.

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What’s next

The internal investigation by Homeland Security is ongoing to determine the full details of the allegations against Bovino.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for vigilance against potential religious discrimination and anti-Semitism within federal law enforcement agencies, especially given the heightened scrutiny of Homeland Security's tactics and policies under the previous administration.