Minnesota Faces Historic Rent Strike Amid ICE Operations

In recent months, Minnesota has experienced significant economic turmoil linked to federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, particularly "Operation Metro Surge," which deployed nearly 3,000 agents to the area. This operation has led to heightened fears among immigrant communities, resulting in many workers staying home and losing wages. An estimated $47 million in wages has been lost, exacerbating an existing housing crisis where over 35,000 low-income households were already struggling to afford rent. Eviction filings in Hennepin County have surged by 45% compared to the previous year, with requests for financial assistance nearly doubling.

Common Dreams

In response to the ongoing crisis, the newly formed Twin Cities Tenants Union, alongside five major labor unions—including Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 26 and UNITE HERE Local 17—has announced plans for a rent strike set to begin on March 1. This coalition, representing nearly 26,000 workers, demands an eviction moratorium and a $50 million rent relief fund from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Organizers estimate that if 10,000 tenants withhold their rent, it could result in a $15 million economic disruption, marking the largest rent strike in the United States in the last century.

People's WorldIn These TimesCommon DreamsNews & Commentary: February 18, 2026 ? OnLaborTim Walz Faces Historic Rent Strike Pressure as Minnesota Residents Say ‘We’ve Had Enough’ of Rising EvictionsTwin Cities tenant group plans March 1 rent strikeAnyone in the Mood for a Rent Strike?

Governor Tim Walz has stated that he currently lacks the legal authority to enact an eviction moratorium without declaring a peacetime emergency, a measure he has been reluctant to pursue. City Council Member Aisha Chughtai emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Tenants in Minnesota are in a crisis. The federal invasion forced many of our neighbors to stay home and devastated our local economy.” The coalition's demands have garnered support from local leaders and community organizations, who argue that the economic fallout from ICE operations necessitates immediate action.

Tim Walz Faces Historic Rent Strike Pressure as Minnesota Residents Say ‘We’ve Had Enough’ of Rising Evictions

While the coalition pushes for the rent strike, some landlords express concern over the potential impact on their finances. Cecil Smith, president of the Minnesota Multi Housing Association, anticipates that renters will continue to pay their rent and encourages those struggling to seek assistance. Critics of the strike also highlight the potential legal ramifications of withholding rent, suggesting that it could complicate the eviction process further.

Twin Cities tenant group plans March 1 rent strike

As the March 1 date approaches, tenant organizers are mobilizing support and preparing for a series of escalating actions leading up to the strike. The coalition is committed to creating a "protective buffer" for those unable to pay rent, emphasizing solidarity among workers and tenants. The outcome of this rent strike could significantly influence housing policy and economic justice in Minnesota, as the coalition remains steadfast in their demands for relief and support for vulnerable communities.

People's World

• “We didn’t stop working because we wanted to; we were practically forced to stay home,” — Anain, Twin Cities Tenants member

In These Times

• “If 100 workers need their rent paid for one month, that's going to wipe out the hardship fund.” — Geof Paquette, UNITE HERE Local 17

In These Times

• “Tenants in Minnesota are in a crisis. The federal invasion forced many of our neighbors to stay home and devastated our local economy,” — Aisha Chughtai, Minneapolis City Council Member

Common Dreams

• “We absolutely need an eviction moratorium,” — Geof Paquette, UNITE HERE Local 17

Common Dreams

• “The people of Minneapolis and St. Paul have shown the way, fighting a federal invasion and caring for their neighbors; their fight and their care continue in this historic rent strike,” — Tara Raghuveer, Tenant Union Federation Director

Common Dreams

The unfolding situation in Minnesota highlights the intersection of immigration enforcement and housing instability, as community members rally for justice and support amid a challenging economic landscape.

Common Dreams