Border czar Tom Homan announced a shift. The “Operation Metro Surge” is concluding. This large-scale immigration crackdown is over. The announcement came Thursday, February 12, 2026. This US News is trending.
Operation Metro Surge Details
“Operation Metro Surge” began in December 2025. It was the largest operation of its kind. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said so. Federal agents deployed across Minnesota. The focus was initially the Twin Cities. It later expanded statewide.
The stated goal was clear. Agents aimed to arrest and deport undocumented immigrants. DHS claimed they targeted “dangerous criminals”. The operation led to over 4,000 arrests.
However, concerns quickly arose. Many arrested had no criminal records. Some were working families. Even U.S. citizens were detained. Aggressive tactics were also reported. Federal agents wore masks. They used force against observers.
Fatal Shootings and Public Outcry
Two U.S. citizens died. Renee Good was shot January 7, 2026. Alex Pretti died January 24, 2026. Both were killed by federal agents in Minneapolis.
Witness accounts differed from official statements. This fueled nationwide outrage. Protests erupted across the country. They demanded accountability for the shootings.
Reasons for the Drawdown
Tom Homan is the White House “border czar”. He announced the operation’s end. President Trump agreed with the decision. Homan took charge in late January 2026. He cited improved cooperation. Federal, state, and local police worked better together.
Homan stated Minnesota is now safer. He called it “less of a sanctuary state for criminals”. He claimed the operation achieved its goals.
Political and Public Reaction
Minnesota leaders reacted with mixed feelings. Governor Tim Walz was “cautiously optimistic”. He noted the operation left “deep damage”. Mayor Jacob Frey declared victory. He praised Minnesotans’ resolve. Attorney General Keith Ellison said the end was “welcome news”. However, he stressed it came “too late”.
A recent poll showed public sentiment. The AP-NORC poll surveyed adults Feb 5-8, 2026. Sixty-two percent felt Trump’s actions in cities went too far. Sixty-one percent felt the same about using federal law enforcement at protests. Sixty percent viewed ICE unfavorably. Public opinion on immigration enforcement is a key part of US News.
Broader Implications
This crackdown is part of a larger strategy. President Trump has promised mass deportations nationwide. Homan confirmed this commitment continues. The Minnesota event highlights ongoing debates. It shows tensions between federal action and local concerns. This border issue remains a critical news topic.
The Role of a Border Czar
A “border czar” is a high-level official. The president appoints them to focus on specific policies. They coordinate efforts across agencies like ICE and CBP. Tom Homan, a former ICE director, holds this role. His position allows for direct implementation of presidential agendas on border security. This role does not require Senate confirmation.
Operation Metro Surge: Scale and Controversy
Operation Metro Surge deployed thousands of agents. DHS called it the “largest immigration enforcement operation ever”. While targeting criminals, it also detained many without records. Tactics drew sharp criticism.
Fatal Shootings and Public Reaction
The deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti sparked intense scrutiny. Accounts of the shootings varied widely. The events amplified concerns about federal overreach.
Broader Implications for US Immigration News
The conclusion of this operation is part of the trending US immigration news. Mass deportations remain a national focus. The Minnesota situation reflects broader US border policy debates.
