Minneapolis mayor Jacob Frey told ICE to leave his city. Trump doubled down instead

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey publicly condemned federal immigration enforcement efforts in his city last week, telling agents to “get the f**k out of Minneapolis” following the fatal shooting of a Minnesota woman during a protest. The strong rebuke has thrust Frey into the center of a national debate over President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown and drawn both praise and criticism.

Frey’s Response to ICE Crackdown

Tensions have escalated between local protesters and federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, particularly after a federal agent shot and injured a man Wednesday night who allegedly assaulted the agent. Frey urged protesters to go home after the incident, stating, “We cannot counter Donald Trump’s chaos with our own brand of chaos.” He also emphasized the importance of peaceful protest, saying, “For those that have peacefully protested, I applaud you. For those that are taking the bait, you are not helping, and you are not helping the undocumented immigrants of our city.”

The city’s response to the ICE crackdown, and the Trump administration’s decision to increase its presence in Minneapolis, highlights the challenges faced by Frey and other Democratic leaders. While standing up to the Trump administration has garnered support within his city, it has also made him a target of the White House and its allies.

A recent CNN poll conducted by SSRS found that 56% of Americans believe the killing of Renee Good was an inappropriate use of force, while 26% view the shooting as appropriate. The poll also indicated that 51% of Americans believe ICE enforcement actions are making cities less safe, compared to 31% who believe they are making cities safer.

Despite the public outcry, Trump has doubled down on his efforts, planning to send an additional 1,000 immigration agents to Minnesota, a state he incorrectly claims to have won in three consecutive presidential elections. He also threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy American troops if local leaders don’t “stop the professional agitators and insurrectionists from attacking” immigration agents.

Frey and other Minnesota leaders have responded with a lawsuit accusing federal agents of making warrantless arrests and using excessive force. Frey has been a vocal critic on national and state television, describing the administration’s actions as “retribution-style politics” and “drama.”

Tangling with ‘bullies’ — and progressives

Frey’s confrontational approach has resonated with many in Minneapolis, including City Councilwoman Linea Palmisano, who initially questioned his use of strong language but quickly realized he was voicing the sentiments of many residents. She described Frey as someone who “literally runs at bullies.”

Frey narrowly won reelection in November 2025, facing criticism from progressives for refusing to support the “defund the police” movement. He also faced backlash for opposing a ballot measure to overhaul policing in the city following the death of George Floyd.

Minnesota is also pursuing legal action against the Trump administration, with Attorney General Keith Ellison filing a lawsuit to block the surge of ICE agents. A federal judge on Wednesday declined to issue a temporary restraining order, requesting further responses before making a ruling.

Frey told CNN he remains focused on his job as mayor and is not interested in running for higher office. “I’ve got a job to do here,” he said.