Minnesota and Twin Cities Sue Federal Government Over Immigration Enforcement Surge

Minnesota, together with the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, has initiated legal action against the federal government, seeking to end a large-scale immigration enforcement operation known as "Operation Metro Surge." The lawsuit, filed on January 12, 2026, alleges that the deployment of over 2,000 federal agents to the Twin Cities area is unconstitutional and has led to significant public safety issues.

The enforcement surge, which began in December 2025, has resulted in more than 2,000 arrests and is described by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as its largest operation to date. State and city officials argue that the operation violates the First and Tenth Amendments, as well as the Administrative Procedure Act, by imposing federal authority in a manner that undermines state sovereignty and civil liberties.

Attorney General Keith Ellison stated, "This federal invasion of the Twin Cities has to stop." The lawsuit contends that the operation is politically motivated, targeting Minnesota for its progressive policies and diverse population.

The legal action also highlights the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good by a federal immigration officer during the operation, an incident that has intensified public outcry and raised questions about the use of force by federal agents. The state and cities are seeking a temporary restraining order to halt the enforcement activities, citing immediate harm to residents and local governance.

Homeland Security officials maintain that the operation is necessary for enforcing immigration laws and ensuring public safety. However, local leaders and community members express concerns over the operation's impact on public trust and the strain on local resources.

The lawsuit underscores the ongoing tension between federal immigration enforcement efforts and state and local jurisdictions, particularly in areas with significant immigrant populations and progressive policies.