US border chief says ending ICE deportation surge in Minnesota

In February 2026, US border security chief Tom Homan announced the end of a controversial immigration crackdown in Minnesota. The operation, led by ICE, resulted in mass detentions, protests, and two deaths. While Homan stated the Minnesota surge was ending, he emphasized the Trump administration's commitment to continuing mass deportations nationwide. The crackdown in Minnesota had drawn significant criticism and public attention due to its scale and impact. The reasons for ending the specific operation in Minnesota were not detailed, but Homan maintained the administration's broader deportation policies remained in effect.

The Trump administration, led by border czar Tom Homan, announced the conclusion of its immigration crackdown in Minnesota. The operation, which began in December and involved thousands of federal agents, will see a significant drawdown of agents, returning the number to approximately 100. Homan cited increased coordination with local law enforcement and the state becoming "less of a sanctuary" as reasons for the drawdown. The crackdown led to mass detentions, protests, and the deaths of two US citizens observing agents' activities. While local officials are hopeful, they await tangible evidence of the drawdown. Security teams will remain in place to address those protesting immigration agents' work. Homan will stay in Minnesota to oversee the transition.