The Trump administration is escalating its criticism of Minnesota’s elected leaders, accusing state and local officials of defying federal immigration enforcement and creating public safety concerns through so-called “sanctuary” policies.
In a statement released this week, administration officials said Minnesota leaders have chosen “defiance over partnership” following President Donald J. Trump’s re-election, arguing that Democratic lawmakers and city officials have openly resisted cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The administration contends that this resistance has contributed to increased federal enforcement activity in the state and heightened tensions between local communities and federal authorities.
Federal officials specifically criticized public statements from Minnesota leaders that emphasize limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. According to the administration, this rhetoric has fostered hostility toward ICE officers and undermined public safety.
Minnesota officials, however, have long maintained that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and that local law enforcement should focus on state and local laws. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has previously said state and local agencies are not legally required to cooperate with federal immigration authorities and could face civil liability for honoring immigration detainers.
Gov. Tim Walz has echoed that position, stating that local law enforcement’s role is not to enforce federal immigration law. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has also repeatedly affirmed that the city will not cooperate with ICE, calling Minneapolis a “safe haven” for undocumented immigrants.
Members of Minnesota’s congressional delegation and local government have likewise defended sanctuary-style policies. U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar has said she supports efforts to protect immigrant families from detention and deportation, while Minneapolis and St. Paul city council members have described sanctuary policies as necessary to protect vulnerable communities and maintain trust between residents and police.
Law enforcement leaders have also weighed in. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara has stated that involvement in immigration enforcement could have a “chilling effect” on community-oriented policing and discourage residents from reporting crimes.
The Trump administration argues that these policies and statements place ideology ahead of public safety and the rule of law, insisting that Minnesota officials bear responsibility for increased federal enforcement actions in the state. Minnesota leaders, meanwhile, continue to assert that their approach prioritizes civil rights, community trust and clear boundaries between local policing and federal immigration enforcement.
The debate highlights a renewed clash between federal and local authorities over immigration policy, one that is expected to intensify as the administration continues its enforcement agenda.
