Trump backs down after a two Americans killed in Minneapolis

Anti-Ice protesters in Minneapolis holding signs with a portrait of Reneè Nicole Good who was killed by a federal officer of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on January 7, 2026. [Photo by Todd Strand]

In late January 2026, President Donald Trump directed a significant change in federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis following widespread public outrage over the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents during Operation Metro Surge. This large-scale immigration enforcement initiative in the Twin Cities drew intense scrutiny, prompting Trump to appoint Tom Homan, a seasoned immigration official and “border czar,” to lead operations in Minnesota and ease tensions between local leaders and federal authorities. Homan replaced Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, who was removed amid criticism of aggressive tactics that resulted in the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti.

In addition to these tragic fatalities, reports have emerged of other troubling incidents involving federal agents. On January 18, 2026, ChongLy “Scott” Thao, 56, was at home when ICE agents forcibly entered without a warrant. Video footage shared on social media depicts officers detaining him at gunpoint and escorting him outside in subzero temperatures, clad only in underwear, sandals and a blanket, while his 4-year-old grandson watched in distress.

Another alarming incident occurred on January 13, 2026, when U.S. citizen Aliya Rahman was violently removed from her vehicle by federal immigration agents during a high-profile enforcement operation. Video footage shows officers breaking the window of her car and dragging her out amidst a chaotic scene filled with protesters and traffic noise. Rahman, who was en route to a medical appointment for a traumatic brain injury, stated she was disabled and attempting to reach her doctor when stopped.

These events have ignited a fierce backlash against federal immigration operations. Protests in Minneapolis have been large-scale and sustained, marking one of the most intense responses seen in recent years. On January 23, 2026, labor unions, faith leaders, community organizations and activists organized a statewide general strike, drawing tens of thousands to downtown Minneapolis despite frigid temperatures. Demonstrators engaged in sit-ins and civil disobedience.

The actions of local residents has played a crucial role in documenting these brutalities. Bystanders have used cell phones to record incidents of government violence, challenging the narratives put forth by federal authorities. In the case of the two citizens killed, video evidence contradicts claims that they posed threats to law enforcement, revealing that Good was attempting to escape and Pretti was trying to assist a woman who had been violently shoved to the ground.

At his first public briefing in Minneapolis, Homan acknowledged the need for adjustments in the federal approach to immigration enforcement. He outlined plans to reduce the number of federal agents in the state, focusing on a more targeted strategy. This “drawdown” of immigration officers is contingent on greater cooperation with state and local authorities, particularly regarding access to jails to identify individuals sought by federal immigration officials.