ICE Departure Leaves Minnesota Community Scarred

Residents remain skeptical as the immigration crackdown's impact lingers.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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After the White House announced the end of the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis, a community still grapples with the lasting effects of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence. Residents express skepticism and distrust, as the trauma and disruption to schools, healthcare, and daily life have left deep scars that won't easily heal.

Why it matters

The aggressive ICE tactics in Minneapolis eroded trust in government, particularly among immigrant communities, and had wide-ranging impacts on schools, healthcare, and overall community well-being. Even with the crackdown ending, the community faces long-term challenges in rebuilding a sense of safety and security.

The details

Over the past two months, the Minneapolis community built informal support networks and warning systems to protect vulnerable residents from ICE agents on the streets. Residents remain on guard, with many still viewing SUVs with tinted windows as potential ICE vehicles. Local leaders are skeptical that the drawdown will lead to immediate change, as ICE has previously shown disregard for community spaces like churches and schools.

  • In recent weeks, memorials to victims Renée Nicole Good and Alex Pretti have appeared throughout the city.
  • Two months ago, the community began building support networks and warning systems in response to the ICE crackdown.

The players

Tom Homan

The White House border czar who announced the end of the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis.

Renée Nicole Good

A community member who was shot and killed by an ICE agent, sparking outrage and a memorial in the neighborhood.

Alex Pretti

Another victim whose portrait is featured alongside Renée Nicole Good's in community memorials.

Elliott Payne

The president of the Minneapolis City Council, who expressed skepticism that the ICE drawdown will lead to immediate change.

Liam Conejo Ramos

A 5-year-old who was taken into custody by ICE agents along with his father, contributing to fears among the community.

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What they’re saying

“Most Americans are ok with lawful immigration enforcement. But what Minnesota has experienced, is not that. The administration has increased distrust in government, and that's the last thing we needed.”

— Mark Foresman, 66-year-old retiree

“I'll believe it when I see it and will continue patrolling my community.”

— Elliott Payne, President of the Minneapolis City Council (Star Tribune)

What’s next

Local leaders and community members remain vigilant, continuing to monitor the situation and advocate for policies that rebuild trust and protect vulnerable residents, even as the federal immigration crackdown is set to end.

The takeaway

The aggressive ICE tactics in Minneapolis have left deep scars in the community, eroding trust in government and disrupting daily life. Rebuilding a sense of safety and security will be a long-term challenge, as the trauma and distrust created by the crackdown will not easily heal, even with the agency's departure.