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The Trump administration is scaling back its immigration enforcement presence in Minnesota, with “border czar” Tom Homan announcing the “immediate” withdrawal of approximately 700 agents this Wednesday. the move comes after what Homan described as “unprecedented” cooperation from local authorities and sustained citizen protests following two fatal shootings.
- Approximately 700 immigration agents will be withdrawn from Minnesota and Minneapolis.
- The decision follows increased cooperation from Minnesota counties and the “Twin Cities” of Saint Paul and Minneapolis in handing over individuals arrested without legal status.
- The operation in Minneapolis,while deemed “effective” by Homan,faced criticism after the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.
- President Trump signaled a willingness to soften his administrationS immigration policy.
“Due to this unprecedented increase in collaboration (from local entities in Minnesota) and the need for fewer agents to do this work in a safer habitat, I announce that we will instantly reduce our presence by 700 agents today,” Homan stated during a press conference in Minneapolis. This proclamation arrived just a week after President Trump dispatched homan to address the escalating situation in the city.
What does this shift mean for immigration enforcement? According to Homan,local authorities in Minnesota will now be responsible for identifying and handing over individuals arrested who lack legal status in the United States,lessening the need for a visible ICE or Border Patrol presence on the streets.
Homan characterized this approach as “more intelligent law enforcement and not less law enforcement,” asserting it would enhance safety for communities, agents, and even undocumented immigrants. He maintained that the Minneapolis operation, despite resulting in the deaths of Americans Renee Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of federal agents and the arrest of 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy Liam Conejo Ramos alongside his father, was ultimately a “success,” though acknowledging room for enhancement.
Border czar Tom Homan announced the “immediate” withdrawal of 700 immigration police officers from Minneapolis, were they are on behalf of President Donald Trump, after weeks of tension in that US city due to the death of two protesters at the hands of federal agents #AFP pic.twitter.com/IY5CCgZcpW
– Agence France-Presse (@AFPespanol) February 4, 2026
“We have taken a lot of people (criminals, according to their statements) off the streets, so I think it has been very effective in terms of security. Has it been a perfect operation? No,” Homan conceded.
Homan also reported a “good relationship” and “productive meetings” with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, both of whom had previously voiced strong criticism of the federal deployment, citing concerns about its impact on community safety and the disruption of daily life.
The decision to deploy Homan followed the death of Alex Pretti on January 24, with President Trump recognizing the need to “de-escalate” the situation in the Democratic-led state and city. Trump also indicated a broader shift in approach, stating, “We are dealing with very tough criminals.But look, I’ve called people. I have called the governor. I have called the mayor. I have spoken with
