Minnesota and Illinois have separately filed lawsuits against the Trump administration, seeking to halt intensified immigration enforcement operations that they claim are unconstitutional and causing widespread fear in their states.
The lawsuits, announced on Monday by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, argue that the surge of federal agents violates the Tenth Amendment by commandeering state resources and undermining local law enforcement. Both states are asking federal courts for injunctions to stop the operations immediately.
Central to the complaints are allegations that the Trump administration is engaging in political retaliation against Democratic-led jurisdictions with sanctuary policies. The lawsuits cite disparaging statements by President Donald Trump and officials, suggesting a motive to punish these states for their immigration stances. This crackdown, known as Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota, has involved the deployment of thousands of agents, surpassing local police numbers.
The legal filings detail aggressive tactics by federal agents, including roving patrols, warrantless arrests, and the use of riot weapons like tear gas. A key incident highlighted is the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen, by an ICE agent in Minneapolis last week, which sparked nationwide protests. Both states assert that such actions have created a climate of fear, with residents afraid to use public services or engage in daily activities.
Minnesota’s lawsuit emphasizes the strain on local resources, noting that Minneapolis police have incurred over $2 million in overtime costs due to the federal presence. It also alleges widespread racial profiling, particularly against Somali and Hispanic communities, with examples of unjust detentions based on perceived ethnicity. Similarly, Illinois and Chicago’s complaint argues that the Department of Homeland Security has abandoned policies avoiding operations in sensitive locations like schools and hospitals.
The Trump administration has defended its actions, with DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stating that the Constitution supports their efforts and accusing sanctuary politicians of failing to protect citizens. The administration has also withheld federal funds from states, citing non-compliance with immigration policies, which the lawsuits claim is part of the retaliation.
Looking ahead, there is no indication that the immigration enforcement will cease, with federal officials stating their intention to remain long-term. The lawsuits seek immediate judicial intervention, and the outcome could set significant precedents for federal-state relations and immigration enforcement in the United States.
