Minnesota immigration enforcement surge is ending, Trump border tsar says

February 12, 2026

President Trump's border chief Tom Homan announced the conclusion of Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota, citing significant cooperation from local authorities and the arrest of over 4,000 undocumented immigrants. The operation, which Trump intensified after an ICE shooting death, faced widespread criticism and protests, particularly following the killing of two US citizens by immigration officers. Minnesota officials expressed concern about lasting economic and social damage despite welcoming the drawdown, with Governor Walz planning emergency funding for affected businesses.

Who is affected

Over 4,000 undocumented immigrants arrested during the operation
Two US citizens killed by immigration officers: Renee Good and Alex Pretti
Minnesota small businesses financially impacted by the surge
Minnesota communities experiencing what Governor Walz called "generational trauma"
President Donald Trump and border tsar Tom Homan
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz
Greg Bovino (original operation leader who was sidelined)
Department of Homeland Security and ICE employees
Transportation security workers and disaster response personnel potentially affected by funding lapse

What action is being taken

Tom Homan is overseeing the drawdown of Operation Metro Surge
ICE has 37 open investigations for excessive use of force since January 2025
Congress is debating a funding measure for the Department of Homeland Security
Local law enforcement is increasing crackdowns on protesters and cooperating more with ICE
Local jails are notifying ICE of release dates for individuals being sought

Why it matters

This marks a significant shift in Trump's immigration enforcement strategy, demonstrating that aggressive federal operations can face resistance from both Democratic and some Republican lawmakers. The operation's conclusion reflects the political and practical costs of heavy-handed enforcement tactics, including civilian deaths, economic disruption, and community trauma. The dispute has now escalated into a potential partial government shutdown affecting critical services like airport security and disaster response, illustrating how immigration policy conflicts can paralyze broader government functions and create national security concerns.

What's next

Governor Walz is expected to soon propose a $10 million emergency fund for small businesses hurt by the surge
DHS could lose its funding starting Saturday if no agreement is reached
Tom Homan will stay in Minnesota "a little longer" to oversee the drawdown
ICE will maintain its ongoing presence in Minnesota (though at reduced levels)
Congress must resolve the DHS funding impasse, with Democrats demanding ICE reforms including ending mask-wearing, requiring identity revelation, and stopping warrant-less searches

Read full article from source: BBC