The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has publicly criticized Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for their refusal to cooperate with federal law enforcement regarding the detention of illegal immigrants. This condemnation comes in the wake of reports that more than 1,360 ICE detainers for criminal illegal aliens have been ignored in the state.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem claimed that federal agents have apprehended over 10,000 illegal aliens in Minneapolis alone in recent months, accusing state and city leaders of prioritizing the protection of criminals over public safety. In a statement made on the social media platform X, Noem asserted that the refusal to honor federal detainers has allowed dangerous individuals to remain on the streets, stating, “We have arrested over 10,000 criminal illegal aliens who were killing Americans, hurting children, and reigning terror in Minneapolis.”
The DHS has emphasized the need for local authorities to comply with federal requests to detain individuals charged with crimes. The agency pointed out that releasing these individuals back into the community poses a direct threat to public safety. “It is common sense. Criminal illegal aliens should not be released back onto our streets to terrorize more innocent Americans,” the DHS remarked.
Ongoing Protests and Rising Tensions
Tensions in Minneapolis have escalated recently, with protests erupting in response to federal law enforcement actions. The situation intensified after a federal officer fatally shot a protester named Renee Good on January 7, 2026. Federal officials maintain that Good used her vehicle as a weapon, leading the officer to act in self-defense. However, many Democrats and local leaders have condemned the incident as a tragic example of excessive force.
In light of the ongoing protests, Mayor Frey expressed concerns about the presence of federal agents in the city. During an appearance on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” he criticized the administration’s approach, claiming that the influx of federal personnel has made residents feel more targeted than protected. “This is not about safety. What this is about is coming into our city by the thousands and terrorizing people simply because they’re Latino or Somali,” Frey stated.
The criticisms directed at the state leadership come amid a broader investigation into a significant fraud scandal alleged to involve billions of dollars, which has particularly affected Minneapolis’s large Somali community. As federal agents continue to address this issue, the situation remains fluid, with community members voicing their concerns over the impact on their neighborhoods.
Calls for Accountability
The DHS has called on Walz and Frey to cease the release of criminal illegal aliens from local jails, highlighting the urgent need to address public safety concerns. The agency’s comments reflect a growing frustration with the policies of sanctuary jurisdictions, which often limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
As the political climate in Minnesota intensifies, both state and local leaders are under pressure to respond to the concerns raised by the federal government and their constituents. With the upcoming elections, including Walz’s announcement that he will not seek reelection, the ramifications of these controversies could resonate well beyond the immediate impacts on law enforcement and community safety.
The ongoing dialogue surrounding immigration enforcement and public safety in Minnesota encapsulates the broader national debate over these complex issues. As officials navigate these challenges, the need for effective communication and cooperation between state and federal authorities remains paramount.
