The Trump administration is reportedly extending its strategy of leveraging allegations of fraud to justify increased federal oversight in Democratic-led states, including California and New York, following a similar approach in Minnesota. A senior White House official indicated that Minnesota serves as a model for broader investigations into alleged fraud, which could lead to heightened federal scrutiny in these states.

Since late December, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has deployed thousands of immigration agents to Minnesota in response to various fraud claims, many stemming from a viral video by right-wing creator Nick Shirley, which alleged a $100 million fraud scheme involving Somali child care centers. This has resulted in numerous charges and convictions, but the video has faced criticism for exacerbating tensions and prompting aggressive federal actions.

On January 15, 2026, a federal officer in Minneapolis shot a Venezuelan man during an attempted arrest, leading to protests in the city. The incident occurred when officers attempted to stop a vehicle, resulting in a confrontation after the man allegedly attacked an officer. This shooting follows another incident earlier in January, where an ICE officer fatally shot a local resident during an immigration raid, igniting widespread outrage and calls for accountability from local leaders.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has expressed concern over the escalating violence and the need for community safety, urging residents to document ICE activities in their neighborhoods. The administration's strategy includes threats to freeze federal funding for programs in sanctuary jurisdictions, with President Trump indicating that payments could be halted.

In addition to California and New York, other states like Maine are experiencing increased federal scrutiny, with local officials raising alarms about the disproportionate presence of federal agents and the potential for violence in their communities. Portland's mayor has publicly rejected the need for such federal enforcement, emphasizing its detrimental impact on community safety.

In response to these developments, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has filed a class-action lawsuit against the Trump administration on behalf of individuals whose constitutional rights were allegedly violated by ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The lawsuit challenges practices such as warrantless arrests and racial profiling, particularly against Somali and Latino communities in Minnesota. ACLU representatives argue that these actions contravene legal standards and instill fear within immigrant populations.

The ongoing legal challenges and heightened federal enforcement reflect a broader trend of using allegations of fraud as a pretext for increased oversight and enforcement actions that raise significant questions about civil rights and the safety of marginalized communities.