Border Patrol Agent Discusses Future of ICE Operations in Sanctuary Cities

Tom Homan, a Border Patrol agent previously appointed by President Donald Trump to tackle illegal immigration, suggests that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) might extend its operations to more sanctuary cities as the federal presence in Minnesota decreases. He believes this decision hinges on how willing these cities are to cooperate with federal immigration efforts.

In a recent interview with CBS, Homan stated, “I think it depends on the situation. I’ve emphasized from the start that we need more agents in these areas and sanctuary cities. How many agents we deploy will depend on the specific circumstances on the ground.”

Homan’s remarks come as the current administration aims to shift its focus from Minneapolis by terminating Operation Metro Surge. Since the start of Trump’s second term, various cities have officially opposed the immigration crackdown, limiting their cooperation with ICE. For instance, they have restricted access to detention facilities, withheld information, or instructed local law enforcement to ignore ICE operations. Minneapolis is among those cities.

Last year, the Twin Cities gained heightened attention from Trump and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem when connections surfaced between the state’s Somali immigrant community and potential $9 billion in welfare fraud. In response, the administration sent a significant ICE presence to Minneapolis as part of Operation Metro Surge, which was framed as an effort to address criminal elements within the city. The DHS announced several arrests, highlighting individuals with severe criminal backgrounds.

Recently, more than 4,000 illegal aliens were arrested in Minnesota under this operation. However, ICE’s activities sparked considerable protests and concern from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who criticized the administration for inadequate communication and what he called excessive force used by agents.

Walz, a Democratic candidate for vice president in 2024, asserted that “aggressive tactics, poor communication, and illegal actions by agents will not be accepted in Minnesota.”

Last week, Operation Metro Surge concluded following two violent incidents involving immigration enforcement officers and civilians. This development has led to increased scrutiny of the DHS and stymied Congressional discussions about the agency’s funding for 2026, resulting in a partial government shutdown.

Despite the tensions, Homan expressed hope that sanctuary city officials could avoid future conflicts by learning from the situation in Minnesota. He explained, “I hope other sanctuary cities consider what transpired in Minnesota.”

While he did not specify which cities might be the next targets for ICE operations, he maintained that illegal aliens with serious criminal records should be the primary focus, rather than other factors that have often drawn criticism towards ICE.