Minnesota Rep. Harry Niska Demands Federal Immigration Law Upheld as Minneapolis Mayor Pushes for ‘Reopening’ of Enforcement

Minnesota State Representative Harry Niska has called for the federal government to persist in enforcing immigration laws nationwide, directly challenging Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey’s recent remarks about a drawdown of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity.

Speaking on Thursday, Niska stressed that no state or city should operate as if it could legally opt out of federal immigration enforcement.

“It’s going to be so important that the federal government continues to enforce the law, and do it smart, and make sure that no place like Minnesota can just be an island of nullification of federal law,” Niska said.

“That’s not the rule of law. We need to uphold the law, including federal immigration law.”

Mayor Frey, in a social media post on Thursday, described the reduction in ICE operations as part of a “reopening” effort that he claimed would demonstrate commitment to immigrant communities and local businesses.

“They thought they could break us, but a love for our neighbors and a resolve to endure can outlast an occupation,” Frey wrote. “These patriots of Minneapolis are showing that it’s not just about resistance — standing with our neighbors is deeply American.”

Frey added that the city was experiencing “catastrophic” effects from previous ICE operations on residents and businesses, but he expressed optimism about a “great comeback” in the coming months.

Niska countered that local officials should not interfere with federal authority, framing the issue as one of constitutional order. He emphasized that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and that jurisdictions must not undermine the legal system by disregarding federal statutes.

“The rule of law requires consistent application,” Niska stated. “Federal authorities must enforce immigration statutes smartly and strategically but without retreating from their responsibilities.”

The debate reflects broader national tensions over so-called sanctuary cities, where local governments have limited cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. While supporters argue such policies strengthen trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement, critics contend they obstruct federal efforts.

Minnesota has been at the center of state-federal disputes regarding immigration policy in recent years, with Minneapolis particularly highlighted in discussions on policing and immigration enforcement.

White House border czar Tom Homan reported on Thursday that President Donald Trump had agreed to end his “unprecedented and hotly protested” deportation surge in Minnesota, with many ICE agents scheduled to return to their home states within the next week.