Tom Homan, President Trump’s designated Border Czar, announced that the administration will immediately withdraw 700 federal immigration enforcement officers from Minnesota, a decision tied to improved cooperation from local officials and law enforcement, but one that comes amid ongoing controversy and public backlash. 

Speaking at a press conference in Minneapolis, Homan said that “unprecedented collaboration” with state and local authorities — particularly agreements to allow county jails to turn over arrested individuals to federal custody — has reduced the need for a larger federal footprint. As a result, about 700 ICE and Customs and Border Protection personnel will be removed from the approximately 3,000 agents deployed in the state, though roughly 2,000 federal officers will remain. 

Homan emphasized that the reduced deployment is effective immediately and framed the drawdown as part of a broader effort to streamline operations under a unified command structure between Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Border Czar noted that the change reflects progress in Minnesota, but said that personnel providing security or responding to hostile incidents will not be pulled back until federal authorities believe the environment has stabilized. 

The announcement comes in the midst of intense scrutiny over federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota following months of protests and legal challenges. The surge of agents — known as “Operation Metro Surge” — was launched after public outcry and statewide debates over immigration policy. The operation had reignited tensions after the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal officers in Minneapolis, a situation that drew national coverage and legal pressures. 

Despite the partial drawdown, Homan reaffirmed that the Trump administration remains committed to its immigration enforcement objectives nationwide and will continue to prioritize public safety. He stressed that cooperation with law enforcement at all levels is crucial and reiterated calls for local authorities to support federal efforts.