In a recent news conference, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz stated that he believes the ongoing federal immigration crackdown in the state will soon come to an end, potentially within days rather than weeks or months. This assertion follows a conversation Walz had with Tom Homan, the federal border czar, and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. Since taking over in January, Homan has faced significant scrutiny regarding the operational tactics employed during this crackdown.
Walz emphasized the need for caution in trusting the federal government but expressed hope following indications that the federal authorities plan to de-escalate their presence in Minnesota. He expects further communication from the administration shortly, hoping for an official announcement by Homan before the week concludes.
Despite Walz’s optimism regarding the end of the crackdown, concerns remain about the pervasive atmosphere of fear it has generated within local communities. The governor noted that many residents and business owners have been adversely affected, particularly at Malcolm Yards food hall, where the restaurant scene has struggled due to fears surrounding immigration enforcement activities. Economic Development Commissioner Matt Varilek noted that the restaurant sector is currently facing significant challenges with decreased patronage and employee attendance caused by apprehension toward impending ICE actions.
Compounding the local distress is the high-visibility arrest executed recently by federal officers at the main county building in downtown Minneapolis, further exacerbating fears among community members of racial profiling and disruption. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty condemned the disruptive tactics and warned that such actions obstruct justice by intimidating witnesses and preventing them from testifying in court.
Walz anticipates gaining cooperation from federal authorities on joint investigations into recent lethal incidents involving federal officers, urging continuous dialogue to ensure the safety and rights of Minnesota's residents.
Walz emphasized the need for caution in trusting the federal government but expressed hope following indications that the federal authorities plan to de-escalate their presence in Minnesota. He expects further communication from the administration shortly, hoping for an official announcement by Homan before the week concludes.
Despite Walz’s optimism regarding the end of the crackdown, concerns remain about the pervasive atmosphere of fear it has generated within local communities. The governor noted that many residents and business owners have been adversely affected, particularly at Malcolm Yards food hall, where the restaurant scene has struggled due to fears surrounding immigration enforcement activities. Economic Development Commissioner Matt Varilek noted that the restaurant sector is currently facing significant challenges with decreased patronage and employee attendance caused by apprehension toward impending ICE actions.
Compounding the local distress is the high-visibility arrest executed recently by federal officers at the main county building in downtown Minneapolis, further exacerbating fears among community members of racial profiling and disruption. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty condemned the disruptive tactics and warned that such actions obstruct justice by intimidating witnesses and preventing them from testifying in court.
Walz anticipates gaining cooperation from federal authorities on joint investigations into recent lethal incidents involving federal officers, urging continuous dialogue to ensure the safety and rights of Minnesota's residents.
