On January 15, 2026, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted an operation at El Tapatio restaurant in Willmar, Minnesota, detaining three employees. This incident has drawn considerable backlash from local Democratic politicians, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, who have voiced their opposition to current immigration enforcement practices.

The operation has prompted a federal investigation into the actions of these officials, underscoring the ongoing tensions between state and federal immigration policies. Witnesses reported that bystanders protested the detentions, raising ethical concerns about the agents' actions. Critics argue that such enforcement tactics create an atmosphere of fear and vulnerability within immigrant communities.

Supporters of the operation maintain that it represents a legitimate enforcement of federal law, while opponents emphasize the disruptive impact on community cohesion and safety. This incident reflects broader debates regarding immigration policy and the role of federal agencies in local contexts, particularly amidst calls for more humane treatment of individuals facing deportation.

In response to these developments, the AFL-CIO, which represents approximately 15 million workers, has announced support for a statewide economic blackout in Minnesota scheduled for January 23, 2026. This initiative follows ICE's Operation Metro Surge, which has resulted in over 2,500 arrests since its launch on December 1, 2025.

The Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, part of the AFL-CIO, criticized the militarized approach to immigration enforcement, asserting that it poses risks to innocent working individuals. They stated, "The Minnesota labor movement is united against the violent ICE occupation of our beloved cities that has directly impacted union members, our workplaces, and our families."

The Day of Truth and Freedom, organized by various community, faith, and union groups, calls for residents to refrain from work, school, and shopping to demonstrate economic solidarity. A rally and march are planned in downtown Minneapolis at 2 p.m. local time on the day of the blackout.

Organizers are demanding the withdrawal of ICE from Minnesota and the elimination of federal funding for the agency in the upcoming congressional budget. The Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation noted that ICE's presence disrupts daily life across various sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, and education.

Operation Metro Surge has been described by the Department of Homeland Security as a measure targeting criminal activity among immigrants. Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the operation aims to hold accountable those engaging in fraud and criminality. However, many residents have criticized the methods employed by federal agents to locate and detain individuals.

Tensions escalated following the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old American citizen, by an ICE officer on January 7, leading to protests and a lawsuit filed by Minnesota's attorney general against the Department of Homeland Security. The lawsuit seeks to halt the operation, citing its strain on local law enforcement resources, forced school lockdowns, and violations of residents' rights. The Attorney General's Office reported that the surge has significantly impacted public safety and community stability.