Wednesday, January 28, 2026-Minnesota Governor Tim Walz met Tuesday with Tom Homan, the official President Donald Trump appointed to lead Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and broader immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota, as tensions continue to escalate over federal actions in the state.
The meeting came amid widespread public backlash after two U.S. citizens were fatally shot during federal immigration enforcement activities and as leadership of the operation shifted following the reassignment of Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino. Walz’s office said the discussion focused on ongoing concerns about federal conduct and the future of Operation Metro Surge.
In their talks, Walz reiterated three key priorities for Minnesota: impartial investigations into the deaths of civilians during federal enforcement actions, a significant reduction in the number of federal agents deployed, and an end to what he described as a punitive approach to immigration operations.
Walz’s office also designated the Minnesota Department of Public Safety as the primary liaison to Homan to ensure these goals remain front and center in negotiations. Both officials agreed on the need for ongoing dialogue, and plans were made to continue discussions with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who is also engaged in talks with federal leadership.
The meeting reflects a broader attempt by the White House to de-escalate a crisis that has drawn bipartisan criticism and protests nationwide. Trump has publicly acknowledged the need for a “very honest and honorable investigation” into the fatal shootings and indicated some federal agents may begin a phased departure from Minnesota as part of these adjustments.
However, deep disagreements remain between state and federal leaders over the scale, conduct, and intent of immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities, even as both sides seek common ground on safety and legal oversight.
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