Federal Judge Lets ICE Enforcement in Minnesota Continue Despite Legal Challenge

Federal Judge Declines Immediate Halt to Expanded Immigration Enforcement in Minnesota

A federal judge on Wednesday refused to immediately block a surge of immigration enforcement actions by federal agents in Minnesota, allowing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations to continue while the court reviews the case. Judge Katherine Menendez said there wasn’t enough time to fully evaluate the legal and constitutional issues raised by state and local leaders, so she declined to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) at this time. The request will continue through an expedited briefing process in the coming days.

Minnesota, along with Minneapolis and Saint Paul, asked the court to halt the enforcement actions, saying the federal surge has involved warrantless arrests, excessive force, and violations of civil liberties. Officials argue the expanded activity is causing harm in communities, particularly after recent controversial incidents involving immigration agents.

Judge Menendez called the case unusually complex, noting its constitutional and procedural questions are difficult to decide on a same‑day hearing. She set a schedule requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to file a response by January 19, with follow‑up submissions from the state and cities due by January 22, and a full decision expected later in the month.