Legislative Update - An End to Operation Metro Surge

Dear Neighbors, 

Yesterday started with the Trump administration’s Border Czar, Tom Homan, announcing the end of Operation Metro Surge - information that was corroborated by Governor Walz later that day. 

While this is welcomed news, we'll believe it when we see it. 

We’ll be watching the departure of thousands of federal agents closely, but one thing we know for sure is that we couldn’t have gotten to this point with the dedication and courage of everyday Minnesotans.

Time and again, under immense pressure, our community stood strong and showed the nation how to fight back.

With nothing to show from Operation Metro Surge besides plummeting approval ratings, watch now as the Trump administration attempts to spin the last several disastrous weeks as some sort of success. The federal government still owes Minnesota answers, justice for Renee and Alex, and the safe return of countless neighbors, including children. The American people see this retreat for what it truly is.

There are echoes of George W. Bush's "Mission Accomplished" banner.

Now, with the 2026 Legislative Session beginning next week, our focus turns to state-level solutions. The harm that has been done is immense, but not only do we need to prioritize a full recovery effort, we must also pass legislation to prepare Minnesota for the next time the Trump administration attacks our constitutional and civil rights. 

As the DFL Chair of the Housing Committee, I’ve been working with my colleagues to put forward a package of solutions to provide housing stability to our neighbors impacted by Operation Metro Surge - including $50 million in emergency rental assistance and state policy changes to make it easier for renters to make rent and avoid eviction.

Other recovery efforts include a $10 million aid package for small businesses, support for mental health care, and resources for our schools - where ICE’s impact has done immeasurable damage to our students, their families, and our teachers.

Our schools are also an area where we can begin to prepare for the future. Not only are there lawsuits to keep ICE away from our schools, but my DFL colleagues will be introducing legislation this session to do that as well.

Other bills aimed at protecting Minnesotans from an oppressive federal government include requirements for federal agents to be unmasked and pathways for Minnesotans to seek justice when federal agents violate their rights. 

This is just the start. 

ICE will leave, but what will remain is the new bonds our community has built to care for one another. We'll need these bonds to help recover, and continue to fight back against Trump's authoritarian playbook.

When the Trump administration moves on to their next attempt to trample over people’s rights, Americans will look to us as the standard. The blueprint for how to organize, protect their neighbors, and persevere. 

The road ahead remains tough, but I’m so incredibly proud to be on it with you. 

In partnership, 

Michael Howard