Trump Administration to Increase Federal Agent Presence in Minnesota Amid Controversy

Mon Jan 12 2026 15:23:35 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the wake of an ICE-related shooting in Minneapolis, the Trump administration announces plans to deploy hundreds more federal officers to the area. The decision follows intense protests and debates about immigration enforcement and law enforcement practices.

Following the shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent, the Trump administration plans to send hundreds more federal officers to Minneapolis. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated the additional personnel would help ensure the safety of agents. Protests erupted across the country, with many disputing the narrative of self-defense put forth by the state, leading to significant local demonstrations and political backlash.

The Trump administration has announced that it will send 'hundreds more' federal officers to Minneapolis following the controversial shooting of a woman by a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. The announcement, made by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, comes after extensive protests against immigration enforcement and the circumstances surrounding the shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good.

Noem stated on Fox News that the increase in personnel, which would begin arriving 'today and tomorrow', is aimed at ensuring that ICE and Border Patrol agents in the city can operate safely. The incident that sparked the protests occurred when Good was shot while seated in her car, leading to widespread demonstrations across several US cities including Austin, Seattle, and New York.

Local officials contended that the shooting was unjustified and that Good posed no threat, disputing the department's characterization of her actions. Protests in Minneapolis alone attracted tens of thousands who gathered at Powderhorn Park chanting against ICE operations, with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey describing the protests as 'peaceful.'

Noem warned that any attempts to obstruct the operations of federal agents would be treated as illegal, asserting that those responsible would face consequences. Videos of the shooting incident show ICE agents attempting to remove Good from her vehicle, which then drove away as shots were fired.

In a heated exchange regarding the characterization of the event, Frey countered Noem's remarks that Good was engaging in 'domestic terrorism', stating, 'Anybody can see that this victim is not a domestic terrorist.' The uproar has led to demands for a federal investigation, with the FBI currently looking into the matter. Meanwhile, Minnesota Senator Tina Smith criticized the administration, suggesting that it sought to downplay the incident and deceive the public.

As the confrontation over immigration policy continues, the presence and actions of federal law enforcement in Minnesota are under increased scrutiny.