Federal Immigration Enforcement in Minneapolis
Updated: March 31, 2026
We know there are questions about federal immigration enforcement activity in Minneapolis.
From early December 2025 to mid-February 2026, Minneapolis and Minnesota experienced the largest surge of federal agents that any city or state has faced. But it is important to note that Minneapolis continues to welcome visitors and host meetings, conventions and events. Visitors and locals are attending concerts and theater performances, watching live sports and dining out.
The FAQs below outline what occurred in Minneapolis what visitors can expect.
What federal immigration enforcement activity took place in Minneapolis?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) staged "Operation Metro Surge" from early December 2025 to mid-February 2026 (Minnesota Reformer). It was a large-scale immigration enforcement action targeting Minneapolis and St. Paul, as well as cities and towns throughout Minnesota (PBS and Star Tribune).
On Feb. 12, 2026, federal officials announced that a "significant drawdown" of the roughly 2,000 remaining federal agents would take place and that a “small” security force would stay for a short period (Axios Twin Cities and MPR News). On March 27, U.S. Department of Justice attorneys reported that almost 500 agents remain in the state (MPR News). Federal authorities have said that 150 Border Patrol agents are typically stationed in the entire state. (Mpls.St.Paul Magazine).
Are protests taking place?
Demonstrations and protests have taken place regularly and the majority of them have been peaceful.
There are no set locations for protests. One location that was a consistent protest site was outside of the Whipple Federal Building, which is more than 7 miles away and a roughly 20-minute drive from downtown Minneapolis.
How has the federal immigration enforcement impacted the Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC)?
All event operations have proceeded without disruption at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Organized protests in Minneapolis have not taken place near the MCC.
Are businesses and attractions still open in Minneapolis?
Yes, daily life continues for people living, working and visiting Minneapolis. Businesses are open and welcome your patronage. As always, it is good practice to check ahead for current business hours of operation.
What can people do to support Minneapolis at this time?
We encourage people to continue to visit, dine, shop, enjoy our arts and culture, see a game, and engage with locals and businesses. Our city welcomes all and our local businesses will be thankful for your support.
The MPLS for MPLS and Go. Gift. Give. initiatives share ideas on how residents and visitors can intentionally engage with neighborhood businesses and workers during a challenging moment for the city. The effort also provides practical information about which businesses are open and what may look different right now, including modified hours and knock-for-entry policies. Also available is a digital toolkit to help local businesses participate in and amplify the campaign.
Many Minneapolis businesses and organizations are stepping up during our city's time of need. Go here to see how they are helping, and if you are able, consider volunteering or donating to these supportive efforts. One notable example is the Salt Cure Restaurant Recovery Fund, a community-led initiative established to provide critical relief to restaurants across Minnesota during an unprecedented period of uncertainty and economic distress.
