U.S. border chief Tom Homan, newly leading President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis, pledged focused and strategic actions targeting undocumented individuals with criminal backgrounds. Amid ongoing confrontations between protesters and immigration authorities, and the recent fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens during such incidents, senior Trump administration figures appeared to be adjusting their strategy in Minnesota. While Homan hinted at a potential reduction in personnel, there were no specific announcements made on Wednesday regarding this matter.
Acknowledging imperfections in previous actions, Homan’s deportation strategy aligns with a recent internal memo from a senior Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) official. The memo instructs federal officers to limit interactions with “agitators” to prevent escalating tensions. Complaints have surfaced regarding ICE officers stopping individuals on the streets for legal documentation and engaging with protesters.
Homan, who assumed his role on Monday, highlighted productive discussions with state and local officials, emphasizing the shared priority of community safety amidst differing viewpoints. Despite these efforts, President Trump, in a social media post on Wednesday, criticized Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for his stance on federal immigration law enforcement. Trump also made unsubstantiated claims regarding Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, insinuating her involvement in a recent incident at a town hall meeting.
A suspect was charged by the U.S. Justice Department in connection to the attack on Omar. The accused allegedly used water and apple cider vinegar in the incident. Meanwhile, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul have been embroiled in tension following the deployment of thousands of ICE and Border Patrol agents for Operation Metro Surge, resulting in fatal encounters and challenges to police resources.
In response to the shootings in Minneapolis, calls for Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to step down have emerged. Video evidence contradicts initial claims made by officials, prompting scrutiny over the handling of the situations. Amidst these developments, Minnesota officials are advocating for reforms in ICE operations and leadership, signaling a push for change in the state’s political landscape.
