Border czar Tom Homan struck a firm but measured tone Thursday morning in his first news conference since arriving in Minnesota at the request of President Donald Trump, signaling both progress and persistence as federal immigration operations continue in the state.
Homan said significant headway has been made in recent days and made clear that his presence will not be temporary, stating he is “staying ’til the problem’s gone.”
Homan emphasized that his visit was not about visibility or political theater, but about resolving operational challenges tied to public safety and coordination with state and local authorities. According to Homan, the administration’s goal is to eventually draw down federal immigration enforcement forces in Minnesota, but only if federal officials are granted reliable access to state and county jails. That access, he argued, is central to conducting enforcement actions in a controlled and safer environment.
Border Czar Tom Homan says Minnesota has agreed to let county jails notify ICE of the release of illegal aliens so they can be taken into federal custody. pic.twitter.com/5nFet2AnNn
— Julio Rosas (@Julio_Rosas11) January 29, 2026
A key development, Homan said, came from discussions with Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. Homan reported that Ellison clarified that many county jails already notify ICE of release dates for individuals deemed public safety risks, allowing federal agents to take custody upon release. Homan reiterated that this approach reduces risk for communities, law enforcement officers, and detainees alike, framing jail-based transfers as a common-sense solution.
Homan also confirmed that the Minnesota Department of Corrections has been honoring federal immigration detainers, a practice he said will now expand. He credited that cooperation with improving safety statewide, not only for residents but for law enforcement across agencies.
While acknowledging disagreements with state and Minneapolis leaders, Homan stressed that there is broad agreement on the priority of community safety and that open dialogue is essential to resolving conflicts.
Notably, Homan declined to comment on the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, stating that ongoing investigations should proceed without interference. He referenced President Trump’s directive to avoid speculation, emphasizing that the administration does not want to see further loss of life.
At the same time, Homan highlighted the strain placed on federal officers by Operation Metro Surge, condemning hostile rhetoric and threats directed at law enforcement personnel.
As Homan made clear, federal enforcement efforts in Minnesota are evolving, but they are not retreating. For now, cooperation with state institutions, particularly jails and corrections facilities, appears to be the linchpin determining how and when federal forces scale back their presence.
