Minnesota Welcomes Easing of Immigration Enforcement

Residents remain vigilant as effects of surge linger

Feb. 13, 2026 at 7:55pm

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The Trump administration is scaling back its immigration enforcement surge in the Twin Cities area of Minneapolis and St. Paul, but state officials and residents say the surge's impacts on Minnesota's economy and immigrant communities will continue to be felt.

Why it matters

The immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota had significant effects on the state's economy and immigrant communities. While the drawdown is welcomed, there are concerns about the lasting impacts.

The details

The Trump administration ramped up immigration enforcement efforts in the Minneapolis-St. Paul region in recent years, leading to increased detentions and deportations. This had ripple effects across Minnesota, impacting businesses and families.

  • The immigration enforcement surge began in the Twin Cities area in 2019.
  • The Trump administration is now scaling back these enforcement efforts in 2026.

The players

Trump administration

The federal government under former President Donald Trump that implemented the immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota.

Minnesota officials

State and local government leaders in Minnesota who have been responding to the impacts of the immigration enforcement surge.

Minnesota residents

The people of Minnesota, including immigrant communities, who have been affected by the immigration enforcement surge.

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What they’re saying

“We're relieved to see the enforcement surge winding down, but the damage has already been done to our communities and economy.”

— Amina Saleh, Immigrant rights advocate (local newspaper)

“While this is a step in the right direction, we remain vigilant and will continue to support our immigrant neighbors.”

— Mayor Jacob Frey, Mayor of Minneapolis (local newspaper)

What’s next

Minnesota officials plan to monitor the situation closely and work to address the lingering effects of the immigration enforcement surge on the state's economy and communities.

The takeaway

The drawdown of the immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota is welcomed, but the state and its residents will continue to grapple with the lasting impacts on their economy and immigrant communities.