Minneapolis Mayor Slams ICE as 'Bullies', Warns Other Leaders

Mayor Jacob Frey says 'it will be your city that is next' as tensions rise nationwide over immigration enforcement.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:15pm

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Amid growing tensions over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions across the country, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has strongly criticized the federal agency, calling them "bullies" and warning other city leaders that "it will be your city that is next" to face their aggressive tactics.

Why it matters

The mayor's comments reflect the escalating conflict between local governments and the federal immigration enforcement agency, as cities seek to limit ICE's ability to operate within their jurisdictions and protect undocumented residents.

The details

In his remarks, Mayor Frey accused ICE of using "bully tactics" and disregarding the rights of immigrants. He vowed that Minneapolis would continue to resist ICE's efforts to conduct raids and detain undocumented individuals in the city.

  • Mayor Frey's comments were made on January 30, 2026.

The players

Jacob Frey

The mayor of Minneapolis, Minnesota who has been outspoken in his criticism of ICE's tactics and their impact on the city's immigrant community.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The ongoing tensions between Minneapolis and ICE are likely to continue, with the mayor vowing to protect the city's immigrant community from aggressive federal enforcement actions.

The takeaway

Mayor Frey's strong rebuke of ICE's tactics underscores the growing divide between local governments and federal immigration enforcement, as cities seek to balance public safety with the rights and protections of undocumented residents.