US Justice Department Fights Minnesota's Attempt to Stop Immigration Crackdown
The Trump administration has strongly opposed Minnesota's legal move to halt federal immigration enforcement in the state. Justice Department lawyers urged a judge to reject the state's request for an immediate court order. They accused local authorities of trying to exercise an improper veto over the US government's actions.
Federal Government Calls State's Legal Move Frivolous
In a court filing submitted Monday evening, federal officials labeled Minnesota's push for swift judicial intervention as frivolous. They argued it was nonsense to claim the administration infringes on the state's authority to govern and police its citizens. Justice Department lawyers wrote that nothing in the Constitution supports what they called an absurd position.
They emphasized that accepting Minnesota's argument would make federal law supremacy secondary to local preference. The government's filing did not directly address the January 7 fatal shooting of Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer. Minnesota cited this incident when asking the judge to intervene quickly.
Operation Metro Surge Faces Legal Challenge
Minnesota joined by Minneapolis and St. Paul sued the administration last week. They asked US District Judge Katherine Menendez for at least a temporary order pausing Operation Metro Surge. This is the name the Trump administration gave to its immigration enforcement escalation.
State and local officials specifically requested the judge block federal immigration arrests at sensitive locations. These include churches, schools and hospitals. They argued such arrests interfere with their ability to ensure resident health, education and safety.
Safety Concerns and Enforcement Tactics
The Justice Department highlighted recent threats and violence against federal officers. Officials argued that expelling these officers from Minnesota or imposing new restraints would endanger public safety. Thousands of federal agents have operated in the state since December.
Their presence has increased immigration arrests and led to clashes with protesters. Minnesota's complaint challenges not just the immigration operation's lawfulness. It also questions federal agents' use of force against demonstrators and their practice of wearing face coverings.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings and Potential Escalation
Judge Menendez has not announced how quickly she will rule on Minnesota's request. The state can respond to the government's filing by January 22. Meanwhile, the Justice Department filed notice earlier Monday that it is appealing another order from Judge Menendez.
That order restricts tactics US officers can use and limits when they can arrest peaceful protesters. US officials have reportedly taken steps to escalate federal law enforcement presence in Minnesota. Bloomberg News reported they might send military personnel to Minneapolis.
The case continues as Minnesota v. Noem in the US District Court for the District of Minnesota.
