Minnesota Governor Praised for Defending Residents Against ICE Crackdown

Tim Walz's leadership during federal immigration enforcement actions earns him acclaim

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has emerged as a leading opponent against the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement tactics in the state, drawing praise for his efforts to protect the rights and safety of Minnesotans. Walz has strongly condemned the "chaos and disruption and trauma" caused by the federal crackdown, urging residents to "protest loudly, urgently, but also peacefully."

Why it matters

Walz's staunch defense of Minnesotans in the face of the Trump administration's heavy-handed immigration enforcement represents a high point of his governorship, coming after a difficult reelection campaign and a major fraud scandal in the state. His leadership during this crisis has solidified his reputation as a champion of civil liberties and immigrant rights.

The details

The Trump administration ordered a massive ICE operation in Minnesota, resulting in the arrest and detention of numerous residents, some of whom were reportedly roughed up or even shot. Walz has strongly condemned these tactics, calling on Minnesotans to "stand up for freedom with courage and empathy and profound grace." The governor has also faced backlash, including a "baseless legal" investigation by the Justice Department, for exercising his First Amendment rights in opposing the federal crackdown.

  • The ICE enforcement actions in Minnesota began in late 2025.
  • Walz ended his reelection campaign for governor in January 2026.

The players

Tim Walz

The governor of Minnesota who has emerged as a leading opponent of the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement tactics in the state.

Jacob Frey

The mayor of Minneapolis who has also spoken out against the federal crackdown and supported protesters.

Brian O'Hara

The police chief of Minneapolis who has worked with local leaders to respond to the federal immigration enforcement actions.

Kent Conrad

A former U.S. Senator from North Dakota who has criticized the violent and deadly tactics of ICE and the lack of opposition from North Dakota leaders.

Donald Trump

The former president who ordered the aggressive ICE enforcement actions in Minnesota that have drawn widespread condemnation.

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What they’re saying

“Walz has properly called out the 'chaos and disruption and trauma' coming from the federal government against Minnesotans. He rightfully urged the people of Minnesota to 'stand up for freedom with courage and empathy and profound grace.'”

— Jim Shaw, Columnist (wctrib.com)

“Walz urged Minnesotans to 'protest loudly, urgently, but also peacefully.'”

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

“Walz wants Minnesota to remain 'an island of decency'.”

— Jim Shaw, Columnist (wctrib.com)

What’s next

The Justice Department's investigation into Walz and other Minnesota leaders for their opposition to the federal immigration crackdown is ongoing, with the potential for further legal action against the state's officials.

The takeaway

Governor Tim Walz's forceful defense of Minnesotans' rights and safety in the face of the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement tactics has solidified his reputation as a champion of civil liberties and immigrant rights, even as he faces political and legal challenges for his principled stand.