Federal Authorities Plan Operation in Minnesota Focusing on Somali Immigrants

MINNEAPOLIS, MN. – DECEMBER 2025: Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey speaks during a press conference to address the media following reports that the Trump administration will be targeting Somali immigrants in the Twin Cities, held at City Hall in Minneapolis, Minn., on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. (Photo by Leila Navidi/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images)

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Federal authorities are preparing an immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota, focusing on Somali immigrants living unlawfully in the U.S. The operation, which could begin soon, targets people in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area with final deportation orders. This move follows President Trump’s recent rhetoric about the Somali community, which has heightened tensions. The president said on Tuesday that he doesn’t want Somali immigrants in the U.S. because “they contribute nothing.” Minnesota has the largest Somali community in the nation. Many fled the civil war in Somalia and were drawn to the state’s welcoming programs. Community leaders worry the operation may lead to arrests of U.S. citizens and others lacking legal status.