Minnesota Attorney General Challenges DHS Operation Metro Surge in Federal Lawsuit
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison has taken legal action against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and related agencies by filing a federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the surge of DHS agents into Minnesota, known as "Operation Metro Surge." The state and cities are seeking a temporary restraining order to address the immediate harm caused by the operation, which began in December and has involved thousands of armed DHS agents conducting raids and stops in the Twin Cities, allegedly using excessive force and violating constitutional rights.
Attorney General Ellison has raised concerns about racial profiling, school lockdowns, and business closures resulting from the actions of the DHS agents. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Saint Paul Mayor Kaohly Her have also expressed worries about public safety and constitutional violations, with Frey stating that federal actions undermine public safety and Her noting that residents are fearful.
The lawsuit argues that the surge of DHS agents violates the First and Tenth Amendments, the Equal Sovereignty Principle, and the Administrative Procedure Act. The state and cities allege that the operation is a form of political retaliation by President Trump against Minnesota, which he has criticized for its election results. The strain on local resources is evident, with Minneapolis Police working over 3,000 hours of overtime to address increased public safety needs.
In response to these concerns, the coalition led by Attorney General Ellison is seeking an end to the operation and the cessation of any unlawful actions by DHS agents. The lawsuit aims to protect the rights of Minnesota residents and ensure that law enforcement actions are conducted in a manner that upholds the Constitution and respects the principles of justice and equality.