In the Latest News from Washington and Minneapolis, early reactions from Democrats show just how difficult it will be for the White House to calm tensions in the city. Despite recent steps taken by White House border czar Tom Homan, many Democratic leaders in Minnesota say the situation on the ground remains largely the same.
Homan recently ordered a reduction of 700 federal immigration agents from Minneapolis. The move was meant to ease fears and lower tensions after two American citizens were killed by federal agents last month. However, local Democrats argue that the change is too small and does not address the deeper problems facing the community.
Federal Agent Drawdown Fails to Reassure Locals
While the reduction sounds significant, Minnesota Democrats say thousands of federal agents are still operating across the city. According to local leaders, aggressive encounters between residents and immigration agents continue to be reported.
Community members say fear remains widespread. Some parents are keeping their children home from school, while others are avoiding work or public spaces. Democratic Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have both called for a faster and much larger withdrawal of federal agents.
Their concerns are echoed by state lawmakers, city officials, and members of Congress, who say the current presence of federal forces is still overwhelming for local communities.
Strong Words From State Democrats
Several Democratic lawmakers have strongly criticized the administration’s actions. State Senator Scott Dibble of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party said the situation remains deeply troubling.
“Now we only have 2,300 aggressive, brutal, cosplaying soldiers bursting into people’s homes, brutalizing people on the streets, killing citizens, creating mayhem and chaos,” Dibble said.
He added that officials do not need more explanations from Washington. “Words mean nothing. We have videos, photographs, and documentation of what is happening,” he said.
Democrats argue that these incidents have severely damaged trust between residents and the federal government.
White House Tries to Reset Immigration Message
The Trump administration is under pressure as public opinion polls decline and criticism grows from both parties. In response, officials are trying to reframe the immigration crackdown as focused on serious public safety threats rather than broad enforcement.
At the same time, Senate Democrats are demanding major reforms to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) before agreeing to fund the Department of Homeland Security.
But early reactions from Minnesota Democrats suggest that any attempt at a “reset” in Minneapolis will be extremely difficult. The city has become a central symbol of President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, especially after last month’s fatal shootings of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother, and Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse.
Fear Spreads Beyond Minneapolis
State Representative Aisha Gomez warned that what is happening in Minneapolis could soon affect other cities.
“You tell us there will still be 2,300 agents here—more than three times the size of our police force,” she said. “Is that supposed to make us feel safe? They are here now, but they could be coming to your city next.”
Her comments reflect growing concern among Democrats in blue cities across the country, where local leaders fear similar crackdowns could follow.
Why Trump Chose Tom Homan
President Trump appointed Tom Homan, a longtime immigration enforcement official, to recalibrate the administration’s approach in Minnesota. Homan has more than 30 years of experience and previously served under both Republican and Democratic administrations, including during the Obama era.
Homan has criticized the more aggressive and highly visible tactics used by former Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, who has since been removed from the role. Some hoped Homan’s leadership would bring a calmer approach.
Even so, both supporters and critics admit Homan faces an uphill battle while thousands of agents remain active in the city.
Balancing Politics and Public Pressure
Homan must also walk a political tightrope. On one hand, he cannot abandon Trump’s promise to be tough on immigration. On the other, he needs to convince Democrats—locally and in Congress—that enough has changed to justify cooperation on funding and policy.
“Our goal is a complete drawdown as soon as possible,” Homan said. “But that depends on ending illegal and threatening activities against ICE officers.”
He stressed that agents providing security would not be withdrawn under current conditions.
New Measures Announced, Skepticism Remains
The Department of Homeland Security recently announced that federal agents in Minneapolis will begin wearing body cameras. Officials say this step is meant to increase accountability and transparency.
Local media also reported that Homan is negotiating with Minnesota sheriffs to allow ICE access to county jails. According to Homan, the 700-agent reduction was possible because of improved cooperation with local authorities.
Republican State Representative David Baker said communication between ICE leaders and local law enforcement has improved since Homan took over. He pointed to a drop in school absences as a sign that fear may be easing slightly.
Ten days ago, Baker said around 1,000 students were staying home. That number has now returned closer to a normal level of 300.
Democrats Say Changes Are Only Cosmetic
Despite these steps, Democrats remain unconvinced. While they welcomed Bovino’s departure, they argue that Homan’s leadership does not represent a real shift in policy.
They point to Homan’s recent comments, where he said that while ICE would prioritize public safety threats, anyone in the country illegally is still subject to deportation. He also reaffirmed that the president intends to carry out mass deportations.
Representative Esther Agbaje said the enforcement still feels broad and unpredictable.
“It feels very indiscriminate,” she said. “People are scared they could run into an agent just going about their daily lives, and something bad could happen.”
