The Department of Justice (DOJ) has urged a federal judge to dismiss a challenge by Minnesota officials aimed at blocking the Trump Administration’s immigration enforcement surge in the state. This effort follows a lawsuit filed by local leaders claiming the surge is unconstitutional.
Details of the Immigration Challenge
According to DOJ filings, Minnesota seeks to exert control over federal law enforcement actions. The Trump administration characterized this lawsuit as absurd, suggesting it undermines the supremacy of federal law.
Recently, Minnesota filed the lawsuit in response to federal immigration agents’ increasing presence, which they likened to a “federal invasion.” State officials argued this move violates the 10th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
Context of the Lawsuit
This legal challenge comes shortly after Illinois and Chicago initiated similar lawsuits against the Trump administration. They claim the Department of Homeland Security’s actions have resulted in terrorizing residents.
The Trump administration maintains that it has broad constitutional authority to enforce immigration laws nationwide. Additionally, the DOJ indicated it is appealing a separate ruling that limits federal responses to peaceful protests in Minnesota.
Current Situations and Protests
Protests have escalated in Minnesota, particularly targeting a church in St. Paul associated with a local Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) official. The church service was disrupted, leading Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon to announce an investigation into the protest’s conduct.
President Trump has expressed strong disapproval of the protestors, labeling them “agitators and insurrectionists” on his Truth Social platform. He has called for harsh consequences for those involved.
Upcoming Legal Proceedings
- Lawyers for Minnesota must respond to the DOJ’s filing by Thursday.
- Judge Katherine Menendez has indicated she will expedite her consideration of the state’s request.
- Menendez previously held a hearing and did not issue a temporary restraining order but noted the constitutional issues involved.
Federal Investigations
The DOJ is also conducting an investigation into the church protest, with the involvement of the FBI and the local DHS office. Reports suggest potential charges against prominent figures present during the protests, including former CNN anchor Don Lemon.
Military Preparedness
The Pentagon has prepared around 1,500 active-duty soldiers for potential deployment to Minnesota, although no deployment has been confirmed. The Minnesota National Guard has been mobilized in response to ongoing unrest following the killing of an ICE agent, Renee Good.
Protests against ICE operations in Minnesota continue, with demonstrators gathering in cold temperatures, asserting their opposition to federal immigration policies.
