A federal operation threatens Minneapolis’s peace, igniting constitutional concerns and economic turmoil.
Story Highlights
- Operation Metro Surge deploys thousands of DHS agents in Minneapolis.
- Reports of excessive force and warrantless arrests spark legal action.
- Minneapolis businesses face significant revenue losses due to raids.
- Lawsuit filed against DHS to halt the operation and protect local rights.
Federal Overreach in the Twin Cities
In December 2025, the federal government launched Operation Metro Surge, sending thousands of armed DHS agents, including ICE and CBP, into Minneapolis and St. Paul. This aggressive immigration enforcement initiative has been marked by reports of excessive force, racial profiling, and harassment. Local residents and businesses are facing unprecedented turmoil, with fears of unconstitutional overreach disrupting daily life and commerce.
The operation’s impact on the local economy is severe, as school lockdowns and business closures become commonplace. Customer-facing businesses in Minneapolis report revenue drops of 50-80%, a direct result of the fear instilled by the federal presence. The Minneapolis Police Department has been overwhelmed, logging over 3,000 overtime hours by January 9, 2026, with costs exceeding $2 million, burdening local taxpayers.
Legal Pushback from State and City Officials
The excessive tactics used by federal agents have prompted a strong legal response. On January 7, 2026, Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, alongside Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and St. Paul city officials, filed a lawsuit against DHS. The lawsuit aims to stop the operation, citing violations of the First and Tenth Amendments and accusing federal authorities of commandeering state resources without consent.
State and city leaders argue that the operation constitutes an unlawful invasion of local sovereignty, terrorizing communities and undermining public safety. The legal action seeks to protect residents’ rights and restore order, as the federal surge continues to wreak havoc on the local economy and public trust.
Community Impact and Future Implications
The immediate effects of Operation Metro Surge are palpable, with schools in lockdown and businesses shuttering their doors due to safety concerns. The fear-driven atmosphere has led to a misuse of emergency services, with 911 calls mistaking detentions for kidnappings. This chaotic environment raises significant concerns about the long-term implications for federal-state relations and the integrity of local law enforcement.
As the lawsuit progresses, the outcome may set a precedent for future federal actions in sanctuary cities. The operation’s impact on Minneapolis highlights the tension between national immigration enforcement and local governance, a conflict that could have lasting effects on communities across the nation.
Sources:
State of Minnesota, Minneapolis and Saint Paul Sue to Halt ICE and DHS “Operation Metro Surge”
