Federal Immigration Crackdown Leaves Lasting Impact on Minnesota

After a 70-day surge of federal agents, Minnesotans grapple with the aftermath and the erosion of trust in government

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A 70-day federal immigration enforcement operation known as 'Operation Metro Surge' has left a lasting impact on Minnesota, particularly the Twin Cities area. The aggressive tactics of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, including the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens, sparked massive protests, economic disruption, and a deep erosion of trust in the federal government. As the operation winds down, Minnesotans are left to confront the fallout and what it means for the state's future.

Why it matters

The federal crackdown in Minnesota has raised fundamental questions about the limits of federal power, the role of state and local governments, and the protection of civil liberties. The aggressive tactics used by ICE have alienated many Minnesotans, including some Republicans, and could have political ramifications for the GOP in future elections. The economic toll and community trauma will take time to heal, underscoring the lasting impact of the federal government's actions.

The details

Over the 70-day operation, ICE agents carried out a series of high-profile actions, including the fatal shootings of two Minnesota residents, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Agents were also accused of using excessive force, detaining a 5-year-old boy, and creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation in immigrant communities. The federal government's actions sparked massive protests, with tens of thousands of Minnesotans taking to the streets to demand an end to the crackdown.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Tim Walz

The Governor of Minnesota, who has been critical of the federal government's actions and has sued to stop the immigration enforcement operation.

Jacob Frey

The Mayor of Minneapolis, who has demanded that ICE leave the city and has been the target of a federal investigation for allegedly impeding immigration enforcement.

Keith Ellison

The Attorney General of Minnesota, who has sued the federal government to stop the immigration enforcement operation.

Fatin Omerabi

A 35-year-old Minnesotan who immigrated to the U.S. from Sudan at age 2 and has been actively involved in the protests against the federal crackdown.

David Hann

A former chair of the Minnesota Republican Party who is running for the state's open U.S. Senate seat and has argued that the federal government has a mandate to enforce immigration laws.

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What they’re saying

“We've been through natural disasters, we've been through COVID, but this is something I don't think any state has ever experienced.”

— Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota (adn.com)

“These terrifying lines are being breached. There are these mutual promises, both baked into law and baked into the American psyche, that are foundational to our democracy that you just expect to be met: How we treat one another. How we care for our neighbors. How we interact between jurisdictions. The limitations on what you're willing to do in the furtherance of a political narrative.”

— Jacob Frey, Mayor of Minneapolis (adn.com)

“What happens when the full force of the federal government is used to intimidate and harm rather than to protect us? The real goal is just to normalize this intimidation. If Minnesota falls, that's permission to go after every other state, so people stop resisting.”

— Fatin Omerabi, Minnesotan and community activist (adn.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The federal crackdown in Minnesota has eroded trust in government, sparked political divisions, and left a lasting trauma on the state's communities. As the operation winds down, Minnesotans must grapple with the long-term consequences and work to rebuild the social fabric that has been torn apart.