In early 2026, the Democratic Party is reevaluating its stance on immigration policy following the shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a U.S. citizen, by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. This incident has intensified discussions among Democrats about confronting ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) more assertively. The deportation of individuals such as Kilmar Ábrego García and the treatment of Venezuelan migrants have fueled public distrust in the Trump administration's immigration policies.

Grassroots organizations, including Indivisible, are mobilizing to urge Democratic leadership to take a firmer stand against the administration's deportation efforts. Nationwide protests labeled "ICE Out for Good" have called for legislative measures to limit ICE's authority and funding. Some Democratic officials are advocating for an investigation into Good's shooting and suggesting that funding for DHS should be contingent upon reforms to ICE's practices.

However, there are internal divisions within the party regarding the best approach. While some members advocate for a more confrontational stance, others express caution, fearing that aggressive tactics could shift public focus back to immigration enforcement rather than addressing ICE's specific actions. The potential for a government shutdown over ICE funding is also contentious, with some leaders hesitant to pursue this strategy.

The call to "Abolish ICE" has resurfaced among certain candidates, reflecting a growing frustration with the agency's operations. Critics within the party caution that such rhetoric may alienate moderate voters and detract from broader electoral goals. This ongoing debate underscores the complexities of balancing a principled stance against perceived state aggression with the political realities of maintaining electoral viability.

In response to the shooting, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced the deployment of additional officers to Minnesota, citing the need to ensure the safety of ICE and Border Patrol personnel. The administration has defended the actions of the ICE officer involved, while protests against ICE have emerged, characterizing the incident as politically charged. Noem's comments labeling Good as a "domestic terrorist" have been contested, particularly after video footage from the incident was released, contradicting the administration's narrative.

Minnesota state officials have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration regarding the extensive immigration enforcement operations in the Minneapolis area. The lawsuit alleges that federal agents have arrested peaceful bystanders, detained U.S. citizens, and used chemical irritants against demonstrators exercising their First Amendment rights. The complaint describes the presence of thousands of armed DHS agents conducting what it characterizes as militarized raids and illegal stops in sensitive public areas, raising concerns about racial profiling and the impact on community safety.

Local officials and residents have expressed strong opposition to the federal actions, with community members organizing to monitor immigration agents and inform neighbors of their rights. The situation reflects a growing unease regarding federal immigration enforcement tactics and their implications for civil rights and community relations. As tensions escalate, the need for a critical examination of law enforcement practices and their societal impacts remains paramount.