In the gray, reflective light of a Minnesota winter, even the slow melt of snow seems tentative — as though the land itself hesitates before change. In much the same way, the federal presence in Minneapolis and Saint Paul stands at a quiet inflection point, its path forward as much about negotiation as it is about numbers and policy.
On Thursday, Border czar Tom Homan — dispatched by President Donald Trump to oversee federal immigration operations in Minnesota — spoke in measured tones about what he described as an evolving mission: not a sudden departure, but a thoughtful drawdown of immigration agents from the region. After weeks marked by heightened enforcement, heated public debate, and painful incidents that reverberated through communities, Homan’s remarks hinted at a strategic pivot in approach rooted in cooperation with state and local officials.
Homan’s comments came during his first news conference in Minneapolis since being assigned to take over what’s been called Operation Metro Surge. He acknowledged that the operation — which has included thousands of federal agents in the Twin Cities area — has drawn criticism and sparked controversy. While he did not announce a timeline for reducing personnel, he said that a drawdown plan “is being worked on” and would unfold in concert with local leaders and law enforcement.
At the heart of this shift is a proposed increase in collaboration with county jails and local authorities. Homan stressed that if jails notify Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) of individuals in custody who are removable under federal law, fewer officers may be needed on public streets — a change he and his team believe could allow for fewer agents overall in Minnesota.
This emphasis on communication also reflects discussions between federal officials and state leaders. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has repeatedly called for a “swift, significant reduction” of federal forces in the state — a priority he reiterated in meetings with Homan. The governor also underscored the importance of impartial investigation into past use-of-force incidents involving federal agents.
But the idea of a drawdown has not erased deep tensions. Homan made clear that he sees the federal mission as ongoing, stating he would remain in Minnesota “until the problem’s gone,” even as he frames the next phase around more targeted operations and joint planning with local partners.
For many residents, activists, and elected officials, the image of agents slowly stepping back — if only gradually and with conditions — suggests both relief and uncertainty. A community that has endured public clashes, protests, and intense media attention now watches for the practical contours of this emerging strategy.
In practical terms, the coming days will reveal whether this plan for a thoughtful drawdown can balance law enforcement objectives with calls for increased safety, transparency, and community trust. The dialogue between federal and local leaders — like the winter thaw that arrives incrementally — may be as consequential as any policy shift itself.
AI Image Disclaimer Illustrations were produced with AI and serve as conceptual depictions.
Source Check — Credible Mainstream/Niche Sources Found Reuters Associated Press (AP) CBS News Fox 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul Washington Post