Minnesota Leaders Demand ICE Reimbursement After Raids

Border czar says officials should be 'grateful' instead of seeking repayment.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Minnesota officials are demanding federal reimbursement after President Trump's immigration raids reportedly cost the city of Minneapolis more than $200 million, according to Mayor Jacob Frey. However, former Border Patrol chief Tom Homan, who served as Trump's border czar, says local leaders should be 'grateful' for the federal immigration enforcement efforts rather than seeking repayment.

Why it matters

The clash between local and federal officials over the costs of immigration enforcement highlights the ongoing tensions between states/cities and the federal government on immigration policy. It also raises questions about how to balance public safety, civil liberties, and budgetary concerns when it comes to immigration raids and deportations.

The details

Mayor Frey says the immigration raids led to significant costs for the city of Minneapolis, including law enforcement overtime, legal fees, and social services for affected families. However, Homan argues that local leaders should appreciate the federal government's efforts to enforce immigration laws, rather than demanding reimbursement.

  • The immigration raids took place under the Trump administration.
  • Mayor Frey's comments about the $200 million cost were made in February 2026.

The players

Jacob Frey

The mayor of Minneapolis who is demanding federal reimbursement for the costs of the immigration raids.

Tom Homan

The former Border Patrol chief who served as Trump's border czar and is telling Minnesota leaders to be 'grateful' instead of seeking repayment.

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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)

The takeaway

This clash over the costs of immigration enforcement highlights the ongoing tensions between local and federal officials on immigration policy, with local leaders arguing the federal government should bear financial responsibility for its actions, while federal officials believe local cooperation is a civic duty.