Story perspectives

ICE Raids Spark Community Turmoil and Protests in Minnesota

1/28/2026

Center

Walz and Frey Respond

Heightened federal enforcement by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minnesota disrupts schools and communities, with absences, anxiety, and rising virtual learning.
The situation escalated after shootings of citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents, prompting protests and legal challenges to Operation Metro Surge.
Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey call to reduce federal presence and pursue investigations, as some Republicans express concerns about enforcement tactics.

Right

Trump Critiques Frey

In Minnesota, U.S. President Donald Trump criticizes Mayor Jacob Frey for refusing to enforce federal immigration laws.
Frey emphasizes safety over immigration enforcement and says police should focus on preventing crime.
Celebrities at the Sundance Film Festival express outrage over the fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by federal agents.
Actress Natalie Portman condemns the violence and calls for accountability from the Trump administration, while protests against ICE continue to grow.

Left

Governors Urge Immigration Reform

A coalition of governors led by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and Maryland Governor Wes Moore urges reassessment of federal immigration enforcement after fatal shootings by ICE in Minnesota.
They call for a coordinated strategy balancing accountability and community safety.
Protests have spread nationwide, including in Tucson, with demonstrators condemning violence.
Senator Susan Collins has urged pausing the enforcement surge, citing backlash and concerns about legally present individuals.

History

Historical Context

Operation Wetback, initiated in June 1954 under President Eisenhower, aimed to deport undocumented Mexican immigrants, resulting in over one million removals. This aggressive campaign faced backlash for its harsh tactics and community disruption. Today, similar ICE enforcement in Minnesota has reignited debates on immigration policy and accountability, echoing historical patterns of mass deportation and public resistance.

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Walz and Frey Respond

Heightened federal enforcement by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minnesota disrupts schools and communities, with absences, anxiety, and rising virtual learning.
The situation escalated after shootings of citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents, prompting protests and legal challenges to Operation Metro Surge.
Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey call to reduce federal presence and pursue investigations, as some Republicans express concerns about enforcement tactics.

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