Judge Urged by Trump Administration to Dismiss Minnesota’s Immigration Crackdown Challenge
The Trump administration is urging a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit challenging its immigration enforcement actions in Minnesota. This request follows a filing by state and local officials who argue that the deployment of federal immigration agents constitutes an unconstitutional invasion.
Background of the Lawsuit
Last week, Minnesota officials filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, asserting that the increased presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents represents a violation of the 10th Amendment. The administration’s new filing argues that allowing Minnesota to veto federal law enforcement actions undermines the supremacy of federal law.
Federal Response to State Claims
The Department of Justice’s (DOJ) response labels the state’s concerns as “absurd.” The administration insists that the Constitution grants it extensive authority to enforce immigration laws as deemed necessary. Meanwhile, a similar lawsuit has emerged from Illinois, where state officials claim that the heightened enforcement tactics amount to terrorizing residents.
Current Developments
- Judge Katherine Menendez is set to review the case on an expedited schedule. She previously held a hearing but opted not to issue a temporary restraining order, clarifying that her decision should not be viewed as a prejudgment.
- Lawyers representing Minnesota have until Thursday to respond to the DOJ’s latest filing.
Investigations into Protests
In other developments, the DOJ is investigating a protest that took place outside a Christian church in St. Paul. This church is associated with an ICE official, and demonstrators disrupted a service. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon condemned the protest as an interference with worship.
Statements from Officials
President Trump criticized the protestors, labeling them as “agitators and insurrectionists” via his Truth Social platform. He called for stricter measures against them, including potential legal consequences.
FBI and DOJ Involvement
- The DOJ has dispatched experts to Minneapolis to assist in the investigation of the church protest, along with the U.S. Attorney’s office and the FBI.
- The FBI is also investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting of an individual named Renee Good by an ICE agent.
Security Preparations
The Pentagon has placed 1,500 active-duty soldiers on standby for possible deployment to Minnesota. Though troops are being readied, no deployment has been confirmed. The Minnesota National Guard has been mobilized but remains inactive.
Ongoing Protests
Protests against ICE continued outside the Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis, as demonstrators rallied despite harsh winter conditions. The situation remains dynamic as both state and federal actions unfold.
