Trump Administration Considers ICE Withdrawal in Minneapolis

Shift in Strategy After Fatal Shootings Sparks Controversy

In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration is developing a withdrawal plan for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis, according to border czar Tom Homan. The announcement comes after weeks of escalating tensions following the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents in the city.

Homan, who was dispatched to Minneapolis to calm tensions, stated during a press conference that the potential drawdown depends on cooperation from local authorities. 'It will take fewer agents that way,' Homan explained, referring to a new approach where ICE would receive notifications from county jails about criminal public safety risks before their release, allowing for safer arrests in jail facilities rather than street operations.

Changing Tone Amid Growing Pressure

According to Jan Postma, America correspondent for BNR Newsradio, the tone from federal officials has clearly changed. 'There was a different tone than what we've heard before,' Postma noted, pointing to Homan's acknowledgment that the federal government hasn't carried out its mission perfectly in Minnesota.

Homan is coordinating with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, though the extent of their cooperation remains unclear. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has disputed claims of new agreements, stating he only outlined existing state laws during discussions with federal officials.

Background: Fatal Shootings Spark National Outrage

The controversy stems from two fatal shootings in January 2026. Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse from Illinois, and Renée Good, both U.S. citizens, were killed during altercations with federal agents. These incidents occurred as part of Operation Metro Surge, which deployed approximately 3,000 federal agents to Minneapolis resulting in around 3,400 arrests.

The shootings sparked nationwide protests, with hundreds demonstrating in Chicago and other cities. Amateur videos of the incidents went viral, reaching 82% of registered voters according to a Quinnipiac poll, and fueled bipartisan criticism of the administration's immigration enforcement tactics.

Political Pressure Mounts

Postma believes the mounting political pressure has influenced the administration's approach. 'That has probably made Trump think that things cannot continue this way,' he observed, noting that even some Republican congress members have expressed criticism despite the high threshold for speaking out against the president.

Homan emphasized that ICE agents are held to professional standards, stating: 'Agents try to do their work professionally. If they don't, we will deal with them.' He added that those who have problems with immigration enforcement should protest peacefully at the U.S. Congress rather than hindering ICE agents on the streets.

Uncertain Future for Minneapolis Operations

While the tone has shifted, Postma cautions that this doesn't automatically mean practical changes will follow. 'We cannot say with certainty at this point,' he remarked about whether street-level operations will actually decrease.

Homan has committed to staying in Minneapolis until the problem is resolved, stating: 'I came here to look for solutions, and that's what I will do here.' The withdrawal timeline remains contingent on continued cooperation between federal and local authorities, leaving Minneapolis residents uncertain about when—or if—the substantial federal presence will actually diminish.