Minneapolis Residents Resist Federal Immigration Crackdown

Massive protests, grassroots organizing, and corporate criticism greet Trump administration's 'Operation Metro Surge'

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The Trump administration's decision to deploy 3,000 immigration and border patrol agents to Minnesota in late 2025 and 2026 has sparked a fierce resistance movement in the Twin Cities. The killings of two citizens by federal agents, attacks on peaceful protesters, and the detention of thousands of immigrants have shocked the local community and fueled a widespread opposition effort involving labor unions, businesses, schools, and grassroots activists.

Why it matters

The crackdown in Minnesota is seen as part of the Trump administration's broader strategy of targeting Democratic-led states and cities. The mass protests and community organizing in response highlight the depth of opposition to the administration's hardline immigration policies and its willingness to use force against citizens.

The details

The resistance movement has included massive protest marches, with up to 50,000 demonstrators taking to the streets in freezing temperatures. Businesses have closed and workers have stayed home in what resembled a general strike. Grassroots groups have formed to protect immigrants, deliver food, and monitor for ICE activity. Activists have risked arrest to film and document federal agents' actions, which have included tasering and tear-gassing peaceful protesters.

  • On January 7, Renee Good was shot and killed by an ICE agent while trying to drive away from an immigration raid.
  • On January 23, Alex Pretti, a nurse, was shot 10 times by ICE and border patrol agents after objecting to the manhandling of an observer.
  • On February 16, the Minnesota AFL-CIO organized another protest rally and march against the federal 'occupation'.

The players

Renee Good

A 45-year-old woman who was shot and killed by an ICE agent while trying to drive away from an immigration raid.

Alex Pretti

A nurse at the local Veterans Administration hospital who was shot and killed by ICE and border patrol agents after objecting to the manhandling of an observer.

Minnesota AFL-CIO

The state's labor federation, which has played a significant role in organizing opposition to the federal crackdown.

Jacob Frey

The Democratic mayor of Minneapolis, who has strongly condemned the federal immigration enforcement actions in the city.

Nekima Levy Armstrong

The former president of the Minneapolis chapter of the NAACP, who was charged by federal prosecutors for interrupting a church service to protest an ICE agent.

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What they’re saying

“Many Minnesotans posted on social media that they viewed this letter as too little, too late.... Citizens need business leaders who aren't afraid to take on public issues and challenges.”

— Liz Fedor, Senior editor, Twin Cities Business (Opinion piece)

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

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.