Minneapolis Mayor Blasts Trump Admin Over ICE Raids

Frey says ICE presence had the "exact opposite effect" of what the administration claimed.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 2:31pm

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Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has strongly criticized the Trump administration's claims about the impact of ICE raids in the city, saying the enforcement of immigration laws has "terrorized" the community, caused economic damage, and had the opposite effect of what was intended.

Why it matters

The mayor's comments highlight the ongoing tensions between local governments and the federal government over immigration enforcement, as well as the significant economic and social costs that can result from aggressive ICE actions in cities.

The details

Frey said the ICE raids have led to the detention of US citizens, the separation of families, and the closure of small businesses, resulting in over $200 million in economic losses for the city. He rejected the administration's claims that the ICE presence was necessary for public safety or economic strength, arguing it has had the "exact opposite effect."

  • The ICE raids have occurred over the last couple of months in Minneapolis.

The players

Jacob Frey

The mayor of Minneapolis who has strongly criticized the Trump administration's use of ICE in the city.

Donald Trump

The former US president whose administration's immigration enforcement policies are being criticized by Mayor Frey.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency that conducted raids in Minneapolis, which Mayor Frey says had a negative impact on the city.

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What they’re saying

“What we've seen over the last couple of months is something wildly different that has terrorized a city, that has led to the detention of United States citizens, and that has ripped apart families.”

— Jacob Frey, Mayor of Minneapolis (The New Republic)

“And we're talking about dragging a pregnant woman through the street and detaining a five-year-old kid who has done nothing—not to mention the extraordinary economic impact: $203 million worth of economic impact in January alone.”

— Jacob Frey, Mayor of Minneapolis (The New Republic)

The takeaway

Mayor Frey's strong rebuke of the Trump administration's immigration enforcement tactics in Minneapolis highlights the significant human and economic toll that can result from aggressive ICE actions, even as the administration claims they are necessary for public safety and economic strength.