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Minnesota Sues Trump Over Fast-Tracked Somali Asylum Cases

3/28/2026

Center

Minnesota Challenges Asylum Policy

Minnesota filed a federal lawsuit challenging the policy of U.S. President Donald Trump to fast-track Somali asylum cases.
The suit is brought by Democracy Forward and Hines Immigration Law.
The plaintiffs say the policy creates extremely short timelines for hearings and hinders preparation.
Immigration attorney Evangeline Dhawan-Maloney says accelerated timelines jeopardize the rights and safety of Somali asylum seekers.
The U.S. Department of Justice denies that the policy constitutes fast-tracking.

Left

Minnesota Sues Federal Agents

Minnesota filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration for evidence related to three shootings involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
The state seeks information on incidents that led to the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and the injury of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis.
Minnesota officials allege that federal agents obstructed investigations and denied access to crucial evidence despite prior cooperation agreements.
Attorney General Keith Ellison highlighted the need for transparency in these cases, reflecting ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities over immigration enforcement.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, also known as the Hart-Celler Act, abolished national origin quotas that had restricted immigration since the 1920s. This pivotal legislation increased immigration from developing countries, particularly in Africa and Asia, and established a preference for family reunification. Ongoing legal challenges in Minnesota against the Trump administration highlight the continuing complexities of U.S. immigration policy.

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Minnesota Challenges Asylum Policy

Minnesota filed a federal lawsuit challenging the policy of U.S. President Donald Trump to fast-track Somali asylum cases.
The suit is brought by Democracy Forward and Hines Immigration Law.
The plaintiffs say the policy creates extremely short timelines for hearings and hinders preparation.
Immigration attorney Evangeline Dhawan-Maloney says accelerated timelines jeopardize the rights and safety of Somali asylum seekers.
The U.S. Department of Justice denies that the policy constitutes fast-tracking.

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