Protests Outside Minnesota Federal Building Lead to 50 Arrests

Authorities declare unlawful assembly as some protesters throw objects at police

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Local authorities declared an unlawful assembly after protests on Saturday escalated near a federal building just outside Minneapolis, leading to at least 50 arrests, the county sheriff's office said. Some protesters allegedly hurled chunks of ice at law enforcement, striking a deputy and damaging a squad car, prompting the sheriff's office to request support from the Minnesota State Patrol.

Why it matters

The B.H. Whipple Federal Building has become a flashpoint for demonstrations against the government's immigration crackdown in the Twin Cities area. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and protesters in the region.

The details

Of the 50 arrests, 25 were made by state troopers for failing to comply with dispersal orders. No weapons were used, and one officer suffered minor injuries. Videos show a far-right provocateur, Jake Lang, leading a group of men in a U-Haul truck, shouting anti-immigrant rhetoric before the clashes with police occurred.

  • The protests occurred on Saturday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Hennepin County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that declared the unlawful assembly and requested support from state agencies.

Minnesota State Patrol

The state law enforcement agency that assisted in the arrests and responded to the scene.

Jake Lang

A far-right provocateur who posted on social media that he would hold a news conference at the federal building and was seen leading a group of men in a U-Haul truck shouting anti-immigrant rhetoric.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is not the first time our vehicles have been damaged at this location. Dispersal orders have been issued. Individuals must leave the area immediately. Failure to comply will result in enforcement action.”

— Hennepin County Sheriff's Office (dnyuz.com)

“The Minnesota State Patrol respects the right to lawfully and peacefully demonstrate. Our role is to balance those rights with our responsibility to protect people, property and critical infrastructure.”

— Minnesota State Patrol (dnyuz.com)

What’s next

Authorities have not indicated any specific next steps, but the situation remains tense as protesters continue to gather at the federal building.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in balancing the right to protest with the need to maintain public safety, particularly in areas that have become flashpoints for demonstrations against government policies.