MINNEAPOLIS: Tom Homan, newly appointed as the federal commander of President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement surge in Minneapolis, announced on Thursday that operations would become more “targeted,” moving away from broad street sweeps that have sparked national outrage.
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Homan said the 3,000-strong federal force in the city could be reduced if state and local authorities provide greater cooperation. He cited productive meetings with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, both of whom had previously criticized the aggressive enforcement tactics.
🚨Breaking: Tom Homan gives a presser from Minneapolis.
“The President of the United States called me Monday morning to deploy here. I got here Monday evening and I’m staying until the problem is gone.”‼️
GOAT Border Czar 🐐🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/UkttBtXX6a
— Stock Mom™ (@stockmom) January 29, 2026
“We can do better,” Homan said, acknowledging that the initial operation had shortcomings. “We made significant gains, significant coordination and cooperation, and you’re going to see some massive changes occurring here in this city.” His remarks were his first public comments since being dispatched on Monday following national outcry over the deaths of two US citizens at the hands of federal agents.
Internal ICE guidance now directs officers to avoid unnecessary contact with “agitators” and focus exclusively on immigrants with criminal records or convictions. The approach marks a shift from earlier practices, which included random street stops requiring proof of legal residence or citizenship. Homan emphasized that the administration remains committed to deporting all immigrants living in the country illegally but said the enforcement would now be conducted “smarter” and with less disruption to the community.
Homan also requested expanded access to Minnesota jails to allow ICE agents to apprehend targeted individuals immediately upon release, reducing the need for potentially dangerous street sweeps.
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The new guidance and Homan’s statements came amid ongoing criticism. US District Judge Patrick Schiltz recently highlighted at least 96 court order violations by ICE in 74 cases, warning that the agency may have broken more orders in January 2025 than some federal agencies have in their entire histories.