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Minnesota Sues DHS Over Alleged Retaliatory ICE Actions

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, January 14th 2026 at 16:42 GMT by Patch

St. Paul, MN - January 14th, 2026 - Minnesota is engaged in a legal battle with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), accusing the federal agency of politically motivated retaliation through an intensified surge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations within the state. Attorney General Keith Ellison and Governor Tim Walz announced the lawsuit, filed in federal court on Tuesday, alleging DHS is attempting to coerce Minnesota into dismantling its sanctuary policies.

The lawsuit represents a significant escalation in the ongoing tension between states with progressive immigration policies and the federal government. Minnesota's sanctuary policies, established and refined over the past several years, limit the cooperation of state and local law enforcement with ICE regarding immigration enforcement. These policies are designed, according to state officials, to foster trust within immigrant communities, encouraging engagement with local services and, ultimately, contributing to public safety. The state argues that consistent federal pressure to abandon these policies creates an environment of fear and distrust, hindering crucial community engagement.

A Pattern of Escalation

While the lawsuit specifically targets actions taken since the beginning of 2024, the complaint details a concerning pattern. Ellison's statement highlights that both the previous Trump administration and the current Biden administration have reportedly used immigration enforcement as leverage against states resisting full compliance with federal immigration directives. This isn't the first time Minnesota has faced pressure; previous attempts to strong-arm the state into greater collaboration with ICE have been met with resistance from state lawmakers and community organizations.

The increased ICE operations, as detailed in the lawsuit, have demonstrably resulted in a rise in arrests and deportations across Minnesota. The state's legal team has compiled data showing a stark contrast between ICE activity prior to 2024 and the sharply increased activity observed in recent months. This increase, the lawsuit argues, is not a coincidence but a deliberate tactic intended to intimidate and force a change in Minnesota's policies.

Protecting Values, Defending Communities

Governor Walz's stance aligns with Ellison's, emphasizing Minnesota's commitment to diversity and inclusion. The lawsuit isn't just about policy; it's about protecting the core values of the state and defending vulnerable immigrant communities who rely on the protections afforded by sanctuary policies. These policies aren't solely about limiting ICE cooperation; they represent a broader commitment to supporting immigrant integration and offering a pathway to stability and safety.

"Minnesota believes that everyone deserves to feel safe and protected, regardless of their immigration status," Ellison stated. "Our sanctuary policies reflect this belief, and we will vigorously defend them against any attempt to undermine them."

Legal Challenges and Potential Outcomes

The lawsuit seeks to prevent DHS from pursuing further actions targeting Minnesota and to compel the agency to adhere to state law. This action could set a precedent for other sanctuary states facing similar pressure from the federal government. The outcome of the case will likely hinge on legal interpretations of federal power versus state sovereignty, and whether the court determines that DHS's actions constitute unlawful retaliation.

The DHS has yet to formally respond to the lawsuit. Legal experts anticipate a protracted legal battle, with potential ramifications extending beyond Minnesota's borders. The case is expected to draw significant national attention and could potentially influence the debate surrounding federal-state relations and immigration policy moving forward. Community advocacy groups throughout Minnesota have voiced their strong support for the lawsuit, recognizing its importance in safeguarding the rights and well-being of immigrant populations.

As this story develops, further details regarding the legal arguments and potential outcomes will be reported.