Hilton Faces Boycott Calls Over Minneapolis Hotel's Refusal to Accommodate ICE Agents

Hilton Worldwide Holdings is facing significant backlash and calls for a boycott after a Hampton Inn in Lakeville, Minnesota, allegedly canceled reservations for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The incident gained traction following a statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on January 2, claiming that hotel staff had "maliciously" denied service to federal agents. This refusal occurred as approximately 2,000 federal workers were deployed to the Twin Cities amid a fraud investigation involving Somali-run daycare centers.

New York Post

In response to the controversy, Hilton announced on January 6 that it would remove the Hampton Inn from its franchise system, stating that the hotel's actions did not align with its values. The company emphasized that it is committed to being a welcoming place for all guests. Hilton's decision followed the release of a video by conservative influencer Nick Sortor, who documented his unsuccessful attempt to book rooms for DHS employees, during which a front desk agent confirmed the hotel's policy against accommodating ICE agents.

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DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin welcomed Hilton's decision to sever ties with the hotel, labeling the discriminatory practices as "un-American" and highlighting the potential business consequences for such actions. Hilton reiterated that the hotel was independently owned and operated, distancing itself from the actions taken by the local management. The company also expressed its intent to engage with all franchisees to reinforce compliance with its standards.

Reuters

The incident has sparked outrage among conservative circles, with various influencers and commentators calling for a nationwide boycott of Hilton hotels. Prominent figures, including podcaster Benny Johnson and political commentator Laura Loomer, have urged their followers to reconsider their patronage of Hilton brands. The backlash has drawn comparisons to previous boycotts against companies like Bud Light and Cracker Barrel, which faced similar criticisms for perceived anti-conservative actions.

Newsweek

While Hilton has taken steps to address the situation, mixed reactions have emerged from the public. Some consumers have expressed support for Hilton's actions, while others remain steadfast in their calls for a boycott. The extent of the hotel's refusal to accommodate ICE agents remains unclear, with DHS alleging a "coordinated campaign" against federal law enforcement, while Hilton maintains that the hotel was independently operated and not reflective of the brand's values.

Newsweek

As Hilton navigates the fallout from this incident, the company plans to engage with its franchisees to ensure adherence to its standards and prevent similar occurrences in the future. The situation highlights the growing influence of social media in shaping corporate responses to public sentiment and the potential for collective action to impact business decisions.

Newsweek

• “Discriminatory business practices targeting DHS and deliberately undermining federal law enforcement are un-American and have real business consequences.” — Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary

Newsweek

• “We are taking immediate action to remove this hotel from our systems. Hilton is — and has always been — a welcoming place for all,” — Hilton Worldwide Holdings

KSL-TV

• “Revoke their license, Hilton, or it’s going to cost you dearly. You’ve been warned.” — Nick Sortor, Conservative Influencer

New York Post

• “Who else is ready to boycott Hilton Hotels?” — @MAGAVoice, X User

New York Post