Trump Administration Targets Somali Immigrants in Minnesota Amid Escalating Rhetoric

Wed Dec 03 2025 04:51:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Federal authorities are launching a targeted immigration operation in Minnesota, primarily focusing on undocumented Somali immigrants, in response to escalating statements from President Trump about the Somali community.

In the wake of increasing criticism from President Trump towards Somali immigrants, federal authorities are preparing a significant immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota. This initiative aims to deport individuals with outstanding orders but may inadvertently target legally residing members of the community as tensions rise. The Minneapolis mayor has stated that local police will not participate in these actions, emphasizing the need for due process and caution against racial profiling.

MINNEAPOLIS – The Trump administration is set to launch a focused immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota, predominantly targeting undocumented Somali immigrants. This plan unfolds against a backdrop of increasing rhetoric from President Trump, who has voiced strong objections to the Somali community, stating they 'contribute nothing' and characterizing them as problematic.

Sources indicate that the operation is likely to commence soon, specifically targeting individuals with final deportation orders in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area. This operation could intensify tensions within the community already feeling the heat of Trump's critical remarks, including his assertion that the Somali population has 'caused a lot of trouble.'

Minnesota is home to the largest Somali community in the United States, with many having fled civil unrest in Somalia. Community leaders assert that Trump's comments and the impending immigration enforcement effort are contributing to a climate of fear and uncertainty.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has publicly opposed federal immigration enforcement, declaring that local police would not participate in such operations. He emphasized that this approach undermines due process and could lead to unjust detentions based solely on racial profiling.

Despite concerns regarding the implications of these enforcement actions, officials from the Department of Homeland Security have maintained that immigration enforcement is focused on those who are in the U.S. unlawfully, irrespective of their ethnic background.

Furthermore, the governor of Minnesota criticized the Trump administration for its rhetoric and actions, defending the rights and dignity of the state's diverse population, including the Somali community.

While reports of recent arrests in the Somali community have been minimal, advocacy groups warn that the increased presence of immigration agents may lead to broader fears among all immigrant populations, reinforcing stigmas and making communities feel targeted.

Activists argue that the political climate fostered by the Trump administration is detrimental to immigrant communities and perpetuates harmful stereotypes, which can lead to increased scrutiny and harassment.

As the operation looms, community representatives continue to voice their concerns while also urging for justice and fair treatment for all individuals regardless of their immigration status.

In summary, the planned actions come amidst heightened scrutiny of immigrant communities in Minnesota and reflect a larger trend of changing immigration enforcement policies under the Trump administration.