Homan Declares Success in Minnesota Immigration Surge as 700 Federal Officers Withdraw

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – White House border czar Tom Homan announced a partial drawdown of federal immigration personnel in Minnesota, saying the move reflects “unprecedented cooperation” from local communities and state authorities following weeks of unrest tied to immigration enforcement operations.

Speaking in Minneapolis, Homan said 700 federal officers will leave the state, while roughly 2,000 will remain — far above the normal baseline of about 150 personnel. He emphasized the shift is “smarter enforcement, not less enforcement,” adding that a complete drawdown remains possible if violent protests and interference with federal officers cease.

Homan rejected claims that the move represents a retreat from President Donald Trump’s mass deportation agenda. “If you’re in the country illegally, if we find you, we’ll deport you,” he said, warning protesters to stop obstructing Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection operations, including recent street blockades aimed at disrupting deportations.

The border czar said improved cooperation from state and local jails — particularly in turning over illegal immigrants already in custody — has reduced the need for officers to conduct arrests inside communities, lowering the risk of confrontation while maintaining enforcement pressure. He noted that fewer officers in neighborhoods also reduces the chances of incidental arrests of non-criminal illegal immigrants, though all remain subject to removal under federal law.

Homan also confirmed that all Department of Homeland Security personnel involved in Operation Metro Surge will be equipped with body-worn cameras, following discussions with officers in the field. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the cameras are being rushed to Minnesota, with plans for a nationwide rollout. “We have nothing to hide,” Homan said.

The two-month surge has resulted in approximately 3,500 arrests, including individuals with serious criminal records: 14 with homicide convictions, 139 with assault convictions, 87 sex offenders, and 28 gang members. “We’re taking a lot of bad people off the street,” Homan said, calling the operation a success despite acknowledging it was “not a perfect operation.”

Homan was deployed to Minnesota by President Trump late last month to stabilize the situation after violent protests and the deaths of two U.S. citizens during encounters involving federal immigration officers. He said calmer conditions and growing cooperation now allow for a measured reduction in federal presence — without abandoning enforcement.

“If you are in the country illegally, you are not off the table,” Homan said. “Immigration enforcement will continue every day throughout this country.”

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