Tom Homan Takes Charge in Minneapolis Amid Immigration Enforcement Controversy
Published 27 January 2026
Highlights
- Tom Homan, a key ally of President Trump, has been deployed to Minneapolis to lead immigration enforcement following the shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents.
- Gregory Bovino, the former public face of the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, is leaving Minneapolis amid backlash over Pretti's death.
- The Trump administration's reshuffling aims to reduce federal presence in Minneapolis, with Homan taking charge of "Operation Metro Surge."
- Pretti's family has criticized the administration's portrayal of him, emphasizing his lack of a criminal record and legal firearm permit.
- The incident has intensified scrutiny of the administration's immigration policies and enforcement tactics in sanctuary cities.
In a significant reshuffle of immigration enforcement leadership, President Donald Trump has appointed Tom Homan, his "border tsar," to oversee operations in Minneapolis. This move follows the controversial shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, by federal agents, which has sparked widespread criticism and calls for accountability.
Leadership Changes and Operation Metro Surge
Homan, a seasoned figure in immigration policy, arrived in Minneapolis on Tuesday to lead "Operation Metro Surge," a federal initiative aimed at intensifying immigration enforcement in the city. Known for his staunch defense of Trump's immigration policies, Homan replaces Gregory Bovino, who has been a polarizing figure due to his aggressive stance on immigration crackdowns.
Bovino, who had become the face of the administration's efforts in Minneapolis, is set to leave the city along with some of his agents. His departure comes amid mounting pressure and criticism following Pretti's death, which has been labeled a "tragedy" by administration officials.
The Shooting of Alex Pretti
The incident involving Pretti, who was shot by federal agents, has drawn significant attention and criticism. Pretti's family has condemned the administration's portrayal of him as a "domestic terrorist," emphasizing his clean record and legal right to carry a firearm. The administration's initial labeling of Pretti as a "would-be assassin" has been met with backlash, prompting a more conciliatory tone from officials.
Homan's Role and Challenges Ahead
Homan's appointment marks a strategic shift in the administration's approach to immigration enforcement in Minneapolis. While his role as "border tsar" is informal and not Senate-confirmed, it underscores the administration's commitment to enforcing immigration laws, particularly in sanctuary cities that resist federal cooperation.
Homan has vowed to target serious offenders while acknowledging the complexities of immigration enforcement, which often affects undocumented migrants without criminal backgrounds. His leadership will be crucial in navigating the delicate balance between public safety and civil liberties.
What this might mean
The deployment of Tom Homan to Minneapolis signals a renewed focus on immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. As Homan takes charge, the administration faces the challenge of addressing public concerns over aggressive enforcement tactics while maintaining its stance on immigration laws. The outcome of this reshuffle could influence future policy decisions and the administration's relationship with sanctuary cities. Legal experts suggest that the handling of Pretti's case and the broader implications of federal enforcement actions will be closely scrutinized, potentially shaping the national conversation on immigration policy.
