WASHINGTPON D.C January 29, 2026 – White House Border Czar Tom Homan held a press conference in Minneapolis on Thursday, announcing significant progress in coordinating with state and local officials on immigration enforcement. Homan, appointed by President Donald Trump, emphasized a shift toward more targeted operations and expressed optimism about reducing the federal law enforcement presence in Minnesota if cooperation continues.
Speaking from a podium backed by American flags and a U.S. Department banner, Homan stated that he has been on the ground since Monday to “regain law and order” and remove public safety and national security threats. He referenced the previous administration’s border policies, claiming over 10 million illegal entries and 2 million “gotaways” posed ongoing risks.
Homan highlighted productive meetings with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and various police chiefs and sheriffs. While acknowledging disagreements on certain issues, he noted common ground on prioritizing community safety and recognizing ICE as a legitimate federal law enforcement agency.
A key breakthrough, according to Homan, is clarification from Attorney General Ellison that county jails may notify ICE of release dates for criminal aliens classified as public safety risks. This would allow arrests in the secure environment of jails rather than on the streets, reducing risks to agents, aliens, and the public.
“Give us access to illegal alien public safety threats in the safety and security of a jail—it’s common sense,” Homan said. “One agent can arrest one bad guy in jail, versus sending a whole team out on the street.”
With approximately 3,000 ICE and CBP agents currently deployed in the state, Homan indicated that successful implementation of these agreements could lead to a “drawdown” of forces. “As cooperation happens, the redeployment will happen,” he told reporters. He stressed that operations will remain “targeted and strategic,” prioritizing criminals and national security threats without abandoning broader enforcement.
Homan defended federal agents against criticism, describing them as “American patriots” who face hostile rhetoric and threats. He called for an end to inflammatory language, warning it contributes to assaults on officers and necessitates additional security resources. “The hateful rhetoric and attacks on ICE officers must stop,” he urged.
Addressing recent incidents of violence, including shootings, Homan declined to comment specifically, stating he would let investigations proceed. “I don’t want anybody to die—not officers, not members of this community,” he said.
The border czar praised the dialogue with Minnesota leaders and committed to ongoing discussions with business and religious communities. “President Trump wants this fixed, and I will fix it,” Homan declared.
The press conference follows intensified federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota, part of the Trump administration’s broader focus on interior removals and border security.
Homan’s full remarks were shared widely on social media, including by the official White House Rapid Response account, underscoring the administration’s emphasis on public safety and cooperation with local jurisdictions.
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