**ICE Surge in Minnesota Spurs Protests and Political Backlash**
Key Takeaways:
- ICE deployed 2,000 additional agents to Minnesota as part of a month-long crackdown
- Officials call it the agency’s “largest immigration operation to date”
- State leaders and community members say the operation targets immigrants and violates trust
Minneapolis, Minnesota — The keyword “ice” is trending after the Trump administration sent more than 2,000 federal immigration and homeland security agents to Minnesota as part of a sweeping enforcement action deemed the largest of its kind. The controversial crackdown, launched under “Operation Metro Surge,” is focusing on immigration fraud, undocumented workers, and so-called criminal illegal aliens, triggering protests and political condemnation across the state.
“Operation Metro Surge” Unleashed in Twin Cities
On Tuesday, February 6, 2024, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) posted an official statement on X describing a “100% chance of ICE in the Twin Cities.” The post confirmed that Minneapolis is the focal point of what ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons called the “largest immigration operation ever taking place right now.” The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) also confirmed its involvement, adding that officers are conducting raids, arrests, and fraud investigations throughout the region.
According to reports from CBS News and The Guardian, federal forces are concentrating on businesses allegedly employing undocumented workers and on cases tied to social services fraud. Officials have also arrested individuals who are accused of crimes in their native countries. In a high-profile show of force, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem filmed on-site arrests in Minneapolis, including one of an Ecuadorian man wanted for murder.
Political Fallout and Community Fear
The operation comes amid growing tension between the federal government and state leadership. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz harshly criticized the surge, calling it a “war that’s being waged against Minnesota” and slammed what he described as a “petty, vile administration.” The move also follows heightened rhetoric from former President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly singled out Minnesota over alleged abuse of social services programs, using racially charged language related to the state’s large Somali-American population—most of whom are U.S. citizens.
Meanwhile, immigrants and local advocacy groups report increased fear and reduced public engagement. Many residents are avoiding grocery stores, medical services, and workplaces. Community activists have mobilized to protest ICE activity and impede deportations, with videos showing physical efforts to block law enforcement vehicles during arrests.
Timeline, Political Stakes, and Lasting Impacts
The crackdown is expected to last 30 days, though officials have hinted it could extend depending on what they identify during enforcement. The timing is notable, as immigration remains a top-tier issue in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. Critics say the federal focus on Minnesota—rather than traditional border areas—reflects a politically motivated assault on blue states and immigrant communities.
In the short term, businesses employing immigrant workers, local schools, and healthcare providers may face disruptions. In the long term, the operation could influence debates over sanctuary policies and federal-state jurisdiction on immigration enforcement. ICE and DHS have not publicly committed to future surges in other states but have made clear that Operation Metro Surge is a strategic escalation under current leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is ice trending?
A: ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is trending because the Trump administration deployed 2,000 agents to Minnesota in its largest immigration crackdown to date.
Q: What happens next?
A: The enforcement operation will run for 30 days, though officials suggest it could be extended as investigations expand or intensify.
#ICEinMinnesota
