Tear Gas, Arrests and Outrage: Minneapolis Becomes Epicenter of Anti-ICE Revolt


In January 2026, Minneapolis became the epicenter of intense anti-ICE protests, characterized by tear gas, arrests, and widespread outrage following aggressive federal enforcement, including two fatal shootings of local residents by ICE agents.

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	Armed officers detain a woman in the snow during an ICE raid in Minneapolis. (Photo by Atlantic Magazine)
	Tear Gas, Arrests and Outrage: Minneapolis Becomes Epicenter of Anti-ICE Revolt Tanya Somerfield - Immigration/Law Tell Us USA News Network MINNEAPOLIS, MN - Minneapolis has descended into widespread unrest due to ongoing protests against federal immigration enforcement under Operation Metro Surge. Thousands rallied on January 30, 2026, shutting down streets and businesses in a "national shutdown" solidarity action. Triggering Incidents The chaos stems from two fatal shootings by federal agents. On January 7, ICE agent Jonathan Ross killed Renée Good, a U.S. citizen and mother of three, during a vehicle stop; video evidence disputes claims she "weaponized" her car. On January 24, Border Patrol agents shot Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old VA nurse, 10 times while he was pinned down and unarmed, as confirmed by bystander videos and witness accounts, sparking immediate outrage. Escalating Protests A January 23 general strike drew 50,000 participants despite subzero temperatures, marking the first in the U.S. in 80 years. Protesters have surrounded ICE facilities, vandalized hotels housing agents, and clashed with police, leading to dozens of arrests including journalists like Don Lemon. Bruce Springsteen performed a protest song at First Avenue on January 30, amplifying the movement. Federal Response Operation Metro Surge, launched December 2025, deployed 3,000+ ICE and CBP agents to target undocumented immigrants amid Minnesota fraud scandals, resulting in thousands of arrests. Border Czar Tom Homan announced de-escalation and a drawdown if locals cooperate, while the FBI probes Pretti's death and memos order agents to avoid protesters. President Trump called Pretti an "agitator," amid lawsuits from Minnesota officials. National Impact Protests spread to cities like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, with school walkouts and business closures. More demonstrations are planned for the weekend, as tensions persist between federal crackdowns and local resistance.