Minneapolis mayor Frey denounces potential military deployment for immigration crackdown
TOI GLOBAL DESK | TOI GLOBAL | Jan 19, 2026, 18:18 IST
In the heart of Minneapolis and St. Paul, a wave of protests erupts daily against federal immigration enforcement measures. Mayor Jacob Frey labels the potential military intervention an affront to constitutional rights. U.S. postal workers lend their support to the cause, while hotels that have been accommodating federal officers face closures amid the unrest.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has called the idea of sending active duty soldiers into Minnesota for an immigration crackdown "ridiculous and unconstitutional." He urged protesters to remain peaceful to avoid giving the president a reason to deploy the U.S. military. Daily protests have occurred throughout January following an increase in immigration enforcement by the Department of Homeland Security in Minneapolis and St. Paul, which brought in over 2,000 federal officers. Three hotels where protesters claimed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers were staying stopped taking reservations on Sunday. U.S. postal workers marched through a diverse neighborhood where immigration officers have been frequently seen, chanting "Protect our routes. Get ICE out." The Pentagon has ordered approximately 1,500 active-duty soldiers from Alaska, specializing in arctic conditions, to be ready for a potential deployment to Minnesota. Two infantry battalions of the Army’s 11th Airborne Division have received prepare-to-deploy orders. These troops are standing by to deploy to Minnesota if President Donald Trump invokes the Insurrection Act, a rarely used 19th-century law that would allow him to send military troops into the state. Protesters have been confronting federal immigration agents in Minnesota for weeks. The president has since backed off this threat, at least for now.
"It’s ridiculous, but we will not be intimidated by the actions of this federal government."
"It is not fair, it’s not just, and it’s completely unconstitutional.”
Mayor Frey stated that thousands of Minneapolis citizens are exercising their First Amendment rights and that the protests have been peaceful.
“We are not going to take the bait. We will not counter Donald Trump’s chaos with our own brand of chaos here."
Governor Tim Walz has mobilized the Minnesota National Guard, though no units have been deployed to the streets.
At least three hotels in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, which protesters identified as housing officers involved in the immigration crackdown, were not accepting reservations on Sunday. Online bookings were unavailable until early February at the Hilton DoubleTree and IHG InterContinental hotels in downtown St. Paul, and at the Hilton Canopy hotel in Minneapolis. An employee at the InterContinental hotel stated over the phone that the hotel was closing for the safety of its staff but declined to comment further on the safety concerns. The DoubleTree and InterContinental hotels had empty lobbies with signs indicating they were "temporarily closed for business until further notice." The Canopy hotel remained open but was not accepting reservations. These three hotels have been the scene of protests, with demonstrators asserting that federal agents were staying there. IHG did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Sunday.
Peter Noble joined dozens of other U.S. Post Office workers on their day off to march against the immigration crackdown. They passed by the location where an immigration officer fatally shot Renee Good, a U.S. citizen and mother of three, during a confrontation on January 7.
“I've seen them driving recklessly around the streets while I am on my route, putting lives in danger."
Letter carrier Susan Becker explained her participation, marching on the coldest day since the crackdown began, emphasizing the importance of continuing to inform the federal government that she believes their actions are wrong. She reported that people on her mail route have described ICE officers breaking into apartment buildings and tackling individuals in shopping center parking lots.
“These people are by and large citizens and immigrants. But they're citizens, and they deserve to be here; they've earned their place and they are good people.”
A Republican U.S. House member has urged Governor Walz to moderate his rhetoric regarding opposition to the federal government and instead focus on assisting law enforcement. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer told WCCO-AM in Minneapolis that many of the officers in Minnesota are local residents performing their assigned duties.
“These are not mean spirited people. But right now, they feel like they’re under attack. They don’t know where the next attack is going to come from and who it is. So people need to keep in mind this starts at the top.”
Videos circulating on social media depict federal officers using pepper spray against protesters, forcing entry into doors, and taking individuals into custody. On Friday, a federal judge ruled that immigration officers are prohibited from detaining or using tear gas on peaceful protesters who are not obstructing authorities, including those observing the officers during the Minnesota crackdown. The Department of Homeland Security had increased immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, deploying more than 2,000 federal officers. This escalation led to daily protests throughout January. The presence of federal officers has been a consistent feature in a diverse neighborhood, prompting actions like the march by U.S. postal workers. The postal workers' chant, "Protect our routes. Get ICE out," reflects a sentiment of opposition to the federal presence. The Pentagon's decision to place arctic-specialized soldiers on alert highlights the potential for federal military involvement, a move that has drawn strong criticism from local officials.
The Insurrection Act, a seldom-used law, is the legal mechanism that would enable such a deployment, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the potential for federal intervention in domestic matters. Mayor Frey's response emphasizes a commitment to constitutional rights and peaceful protest, aiming to de-escalate the situation and prevent the need for military intervention. His statement about not taking the bait and not countering chaos with chaos suggests a strategic approach to managing the ongoing tensions. Governor Walz's mobilization of the National Guard, while not involving street deployment, indicates a state-level preparedness for potential unrest or a need for support. The closure of hotels frequented by ICE officers suggests a direct impact of the protests on local businesses and a potential response to security concerns. The accounts from postal workers like Peter Noble and Susan Becker provide firsthand perspectives on the perceived negative impacts of the immigration crackdown, including dangerous driving and alleged instances of misconduct by federal agents.
These personal testimonies add a human element to the broader political and legal disputes. The call from Congressman Emmer for Governor Walz to change his tone reflects a partisan divide on the issue and a differing perspective on the role of federal law enforcement and local government cooperation. The federal judge's ruling on Friday serves as a legal check on the actions of immigration officers, establishing boundaries for their conduct when dealing with peaceful protesters. This ruling underscores the importance of civil liberties and the legal framework governing law enforcement activities. The article details a complex situation involving federal immigration enforcement, local government opposition, citizen protests, and the potential for military deployment, all unfolding in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The increased presence of federal officers, the mayor's strong denunciation of military deployment, the mobilization of the National Guard, and the actions of postal workers all contribute to a picture of significant local resistance to federal immigration policies.
The hotels' closures and the personal accounts of alleged misconduct by ICE officers further illustrate the tangible effects of the crackdown on the community. The political discourse, as exemplified by Congressman Emmer's remarks, highlights the differing viewpoints on how to address the situation. The federal judge's ruling provides a legal context for the ongoing interactions between law enforcement and protesters. The article meticulously lays out the sequence of events and the various actors involved, from federal agencies to local officials and ordinary citizens. The core of the conflict revolves around the federal government's immigration enforcement actions and the strong opposition they have encountered in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The threat of deploying active duty soldiers, even if currently withdrawn, remains a significant point of contention and a symbol of the escalating tensions. The mayor's firm stance against such a deployment is a key element of the narrative, emphasizing the constitutional implications. The protests themselves, described as peaceful by the mayor, are a direct response to the federal presence. The involvement of postal workers, a group not typically associated with political activism, underscores the widespread concern and opposition to the immigration crackdown. Their march and chants demonstrate a collective voice against the federal actions.
The hotels' temporary closures add a practical dimension to the story, showing how the protests are impacting local businesses and potentially creating security challenges. The accounts of alleged ICE misconduct, if substantiated, would further fuel the opposition and raise serious questions about the conduct of federal agents. The political commentary from a Republican congressman introduces a different perspective, suggesting a need for cooperation rather than confrontation. This highlights the partisan nature of the debate surrounding immigration enforcement. The federal judge's ruling provides a crucial legal backdrop, setting limits on law enforcement behavior and protecting the rights of peaceful protesters. This ruling is a significant development in the ongoing legal challenges related to the crackdown. The article presents a multifaceted situation with legal, political, and social dimensions, all centered on the federal government's immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota. The mayor's strong condemnation of potential military deployment is a central theme, reflecting a deep concern for constitutional principles and local autonomy. The ongoing protests, characterized by their peaceful nature according to the mayor, represent a significant expression of public dissent. The participation of U.S. postal workers in these protests signifies a broad-based opposition that extends beyond typical activist groups. The reported actions of federal immigration officers, including alleged misconduct, have contributed to the heightened tensions and the community's unease.
The hotels' closures are a tangible consequence of the situation, indicating a disruption of normal operations due to the ongoing events. The political commentary from a Republican congressman offers a contrasting viewpoint, emphasizing the need for law enforcement support and a less confrontational approach from local officials. The federal judge's ruling serves as a legal check on the actions of immigration officers, reinforcing the rights of peaceful protesters and setting clear boundaries for law enforcement conduct. The article effectively captures the dynamic and evolving nature of the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis and St. Paul, highlighting the various perspectives and the potential for further escalation or de-escalation. The mayor's firm stance against the deployment of active duty soldiers is a critical element, underscoring the constitutional concerns raised by such a possibility. The sustained protests, described as peaceful, demonstrate a persistent community response to the federal enforcement actions. The involvement of U.S. postal workers in these demonstrations signifies a broad spectrum of public engagement and opposition. The accounts of alleged misconduct by immigration officers, as reported by residents and postal workers, contribute to the growing unease and distrust. The temporary closure of hotels associated with federal agents suggests a direct impact on local businesses and potential security considerations. The political commentary from a Republican congressman introduces a different perspective, advocating for a more collaborative approach between local and federal authorities. The federal judge's ruling provides a legal framework for the interactions between law enforcement and protesters, emphasizing the protection of civil liberties. The article presents a comprehensive overview of a complex and contentious situation, detailing the actions of federal agencies, the reactions of local officials and citizens, and the legal ramifications of the ongoing events.
The mayor's strong opposition to the use of active duty soldiers in immigration enforcement is a central theme, highlighting the constitutional and practical objections. The daily protests, characterized as peaceful, represent a sustained expression of community dissent against the federal presence. The participation of U.S. postal workers in these demonstrations underscores the widespread nature of the opposition. The reported instances of alleged misconduct by immigration officers have fueled community concerns and contributed to the heightened tensions. The closure of hotels where federal agents were reportedly staying indicates a tangible impact on local businesses and potential security measures. The political commentary from a Republican congressman offers a contrasting viewpoint, urging for a more cooperative stance from local leaders. The federal judge's ruling serves as a legal safeguard for peaceful protesters, establishing clear guidelines for law enforcement conduct. The article provides a detailed account of the unfolding situation, encompassing the actions of federal agencies, the responses of local authorities and residents, and the legal considerations involved in the immigration crackdown.
"It’s ridiculous, but we will not be intimidated by the actions of this federal government."
"It is not fair, it’s not just, and it’s completely unconstitutional.”
Mayor Frey stated that thousands of Minneapolis citizens are exercising their First Amendment rights and that the protests have been peaceful.
“We are not going to take the bait. We will not counter Donald Trump’s chaos with our own brand of chaos here."
Governor Tim Walz has mobilized the Minnesota National Guard, though no units have been deployed to the streets.
At least three hotels in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, which protesters identified as housing officers involved in the immigration crackdown, were not accepting reservations on Sunday. Online bookings were unavailable until early February at the Hilton DoubleTree and IHG InterContinental hotels in downtown St. Paul, and at the Hilton Canopy hotel in Minneapolis. An employee at the InterContinental hotel stated over the phone that the hotel was closing for the safety of its staff but declined to comment further on the safety concerns. The DoubleTree and InterContinental hotels had empty lobbies with signs indicating they were "temporarily closed for business until further notice." The Canopy hotel remained open but was not accepting reservations. These three hotels have been the scene of protests, with demonstrators asserting that federal agents were staying there. IHG did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Sunday.
Peter Noble joined dozens of other U.S. Post Office workers on their day off to march against the immigration crackdown. They passed by the location where an immigration officer fatally shot Renee Good, a U.S. citizen and mother of three, during a confrontation on January 7.
“I've seen them driving recklessly around the streets while I am on my route, putting lives in danger."
Letter carrier Susan Becker explained her participation, marching on the coldest day since the crackdown began, emphasizing the importance of continuing to inform the federal government that she believes their actions are wrong. She reported that people on her mail route have described ICE officers breaking into apartment buildings and tackling individuals in shopping center parking lots.
“These people are by and large citizens and immigrants. But they're citizens, and they deserve to be here; they've earned their place and they are good people.”
A Republican U.S. House member has urged Governor Walz to moderate his rhetoric regarding opposition to the federal government and instead focus on assisting law enforcement. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer told WCCO-AM in Minneapolis that many of the officers in Minnesota are local residents performing their assigned duties.
“These are not mean spirited people. But right now, they feel like they’re under attack. They don’t know where the next attack is going to come from and who it is. So people need to keep in mind this starts at the top.”
Videos circulating on social media depict federal officers using pepper spray against protesters, forcing entry into doors, and taking individuals into custody. On Friday, a federal judge ruled that immigration officers are prohibited from detaining or using tear gas on peaceful protesters who are not obstructing authorities, including those observing the officers during the Minnesota crackdown. The Department of Homeland Security had increased immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, deploying more than 2,000 federal officers. This escalation led to daily protests throughout January. The presence of federal officers has been a consistent feature in a diverse neighborhood, prompting actions like the march by U.S. postal workers. The postal workers' chant, "Protect our routes. Get ICE out," reflects a sentiment of opposition to the federal presence. The Pentagon's decision to place arctic-specialized soldiers on alert highlights the potential for federal military involvement, a move that has drawn strong criticism from local officials.
The Insurrection Act, a seldom-used law, is the legal mechanism that would enable such a deployment, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the potential for federal intervention in domestic matters. Mayor Frey's response emphasizes a commitment to constitutional rights and peaceful protest, aiming to de-escalate the situation and prevent the need for military intervention. His statement about not taking the bait and not countering chaos with chaos suggests a strategic approach to managing the ongoing tensions. Governor Walz's mobilization of the National Guard, while not involving street deployment, indicates a state-level preparedness for potential unrest or a need for support. The closure of hotels frequented by ICE officers suggests a direct impact of the protests on local businesses and a potential response to security concerns. The accounts from postal workers like Peter Noble and Susan Becker provide firsthand perspectives on the perceived negative impacts of the immigration crackdown, including dangerous driving and alleged instances of misconduct by federal agents.
These personal testimonies add a human element to the broader political and legal disputes. The call from Congressman Emmer for Governor Walz to change his tone reflects a partisan divide on the issue and a differing perspective on the role of federal law enforcement and local government cooperation. The federal judge's ruling on Friday serves as a legal check on the actions of immigration officers, establishing boundaries for their conduct when dealing with peaceful protesters. This ruling underscores the importance of civil liberties and the legal framework governing law enforcement activities. The article details a complex situation involving federal immigration enforcement, local government opposition, citizen protests, and the potential for military deployment, all unfolding in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The increased presence of federal officers, the mayor's strong denunciation of military deployment, the mobilization of the National Guard, and the actions of postal workers all contribute to a picture of significant local resistance to federal immigration policies.
The hotels' closures and the personal accounts of alleged misconduct by ICE officers further illustrate the tangible effects of the crackdown on the community. The political discourse, as exemplified by Congressman Emmer's remarks, highlights the differing viewpoints on how to address the situation. The federal judge's ruling provides a legal context for the ongoing interactions between law enforcement and protesters. The article meticulously lays out the sequence of events and the various actors involved, from federal agencies to local officials and ordinary citizens. The core of the conflict revolves around the federal government's immigration enforcement actions and the strong opposition they have encountered in Minneapolis and St. Paul. The threat of deploying active duty soldiers, even if currently withdrawn, remains a significant point of contention and a symbol of the escalating tensions. The mayor's firm stance against such a deployment is a key element of the narrative, emphasizing the constitutional implications. The protests themselves, described as peaceful by the mayor, are a direct response to the federal presence. The involvement of postal workers, a group not typically associated with political activism, underscores the widespread concern and opposition to the immigration crackdown. Their march and chants demonstrate a collective voice against the federal actions.
The hotels' temporary closures add a practical dimension to the story, showing how the protests are impacting local businesses and potentially creating security challenges. The accounts of alleged ICE misconduct, if substantiated, would further fuel the opposition and raise serious questions about the conduct of federal agents. The political commentary from a Republican congressman introduces a different perspective, suggesting a need for cooperation rather than confrontation. This highlights the partisan nature of the debate surrounding immigration enforcement. The federal judge's ruling provides a crucial legal backdrop, setting limits on law enforcement behavior and protecting the rights of peaceful protesters. This ruling is a significant development in the ongoing legal challenges related to the crackdown. The article presents a multifaceted situation with legal, political, and social dimensions, all centered on the federal government's immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota. The mayor's strong condemnation of potential military deployment is a central theme, reflecting a deep concern for constitutional principles and local autonomy. The ongoing protests, characterized by their peaceful nature according to the mayor, represent a significant expression of public dissent. The participation of U.S. postal workers in these protests signifies a broad-based opposition that extends beyond typical activist groups. The reported actions of federal immigration officers, including alleged misconduct, have contributed to the heightened tensions and the community's unease.
The hotels' closures are a tangible consequence of the situation, indicating a disruption of normal operations due to the ongoing events. The political commentary from a Republican congressman offers a contrasting viewpoint, emphasizing the need for law enforcement support and a less confrontational approach from local officials. The federal judge's ruling serves as a legal check on the actions of immigration officers, reinforcing the rights of peaceful protesters and setting clear boundaries for law enforcement conduct. The article effectively captures the dynamic and evolving nature of the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis and St. Paul, highlighting the various perspectives and the potential for further escalation or de-escalation. The mayor's firm stance against the deployment of active duty soldiers is a critical element, underscoring the constitutional concerns raised by such a possibility. The sustained protests, described as peaceful, demonstrate a persistent community response to the federal enforcement actions. The involvement of U.S. postal workers in these demonstrations signifies a broad spectrum of public engagement and opposition. The accounts of alleged misconduct by immigration officers, as reported by residents and postal workers, contribute to the growing unease and distrust. The temporary closure of hotels associated with federal agents suggests a direct impact on local businesses and potential security considerations. The political commentary from a Republican congressman introduces a different perspective, advocating for a more collaborative approach between local and federal authorities. The federal judge's ruling provides a legal framework for the interactions between law enforcement and protesters, emphasizing the protection of civil liberties. The article presents a comprehensive overview of a complex and contentious situation, detailing the actions of federal agencies, the reactions of local officials and citizens, and the legal ramifications of the ongoing events.
The mayor's strong opposition to the use of active duty soldiers in immigration enforcement is a central theme, highlighting the constitutional and practical objections. The daily protests, characterized as peaceful, represent a sustained expression of community dissent against the federal presence. The participation of U.S. postal workers in these demonstrations underscores the widespread nature of the opposition. The reported instances of alleged misconduct by immigration officers have fueled community concerns and contributed to the heightened tensions. The closure of hotels where federal agents were reportedly staying indicates a tangible impact on local businesses and potential security measures. The political commentary from a Republican congressman offers a contrasting viewpoint, urging for a more cooperative stance from local leaders. The federal judge's ruling serves as a legal safeguard for peaceful protesters, establishing clear guidelines for law enforcement conduct. The article provides a detailed account of the unfolding situation, encompassing the actions of federal agencies, the responses of local authorities and residents, and the legal considerations involved in the immigration crackdown.