ICE Expands Crackdown: Operations in Maine, Minneapolis, and More
In the early weeks of 2026, the Trump administration has intensified its immigration enforcement efforts, deploying U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in sweeping operations across multiple states. Dubbed “Operation Catch of the Day” in Maine and “Operation Metro Surge” in Minnesota, these initiatives mark a significant escalation in the president’s promise to crack down on undocumented immigrants, particularly those deemed the “worst of the worst” criminals. However, the operations have sparked widespread controversy, with reports of aggressive tactics, including warrantless home entries in some instances, fueling protests, legal battles, and even criticism from within Trump’s own voter base. As the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under Secretary Kristi Noem pushes forward, the nation grapples with the balance between border security and civil liberties.
This surge comes amid a broader national strategy that has seen ICE arrest thousands since late 2025, with over 3,000 detentions in Minnesota alone. President Trump has framed these actions as essential to protecting American communities from violent offenders, but critics argue they represent an overreach, targeting not just criminals but also families and bystanders, leading to tragic incidents and eroding public trust.
The Launch of “Operation Catch of the Day” in Maine
On January 21, 2026, DHS officially announced the commencement of “Operation Catch of the Day,” a targeted enforcement effort across Maine aimed at apprehending undocumented immigrants with serious criminal histories. The operation, which began the previous day, focuses on individuals convicted of crimes such as aggravated assault, false imprisonment, and endangering the welfare of children. In its first day, ICE reported arresting over 50 people, with officials estimating around 1,400 potential targets in the state.
The name “Catch of the Day” appears to be a pointed reference to Maine’s renowned seafood industry, but it has drawn ire for its perceived insensitivity. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that the operation is about removing “vicious murderers, rapists, child pedophiles, and incredibly dangerous individuals” from communities. However, local leaders, including Democratic Governor Janet Mills, have condemned the move as politically motivated, stemming from ongoing tensions between the state and the federal government. Mills has refused to cooperate with ICE, citing state laws that prohibit local law enforcement from assisting in immigration enforcement, which ICE officials claim has hindered their efforts.
Reports from Greater Portland and Lewiston indicate a rapid escalation in arrests, with federal agents conducting raids in residential areas. Immigrant advocacy groups have advised community members to shelter in place, fearing broader sweeps that could ensnare non-criminal undocumented residents. One notable incident involved the arrest of a mother with pending asylum after dropping her child at school, raising questions about whether the operation is strictly limited to “criminal aliens.”
Operation Metro Surge: Escalation in Minneapolis and Beyond
Meanwhile, in Minnesota, “Operation Metro Surge” has been underway since early December 2025, initially focusing on the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul before expanding statewide. DHS reports that the operation has resulted in over 3,000 arrests in just six weeks, targeting murderers, rapists, gang members, and fraud perpetrators. The deployment of nearly 3,000 Border Patrol and ICE officers has transformed the area into what some residents describe as an “invasion,” with agents conducting home raids and vehicle stops.
A flashpoint in the operation was the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good on January 7, 2026, by an ICE agent in a Minneapolis suburb. Bodycam footage contradicted initial claims that Good attempted to run over the officer, sparking nationwide outrage and intensifying protests. Vice President JD Vance visited Minneapolis on January 22 to defend the operations, meeting with agents and criticizing local officials for obstructing federal efforts. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has also weighed in, announcing imminent arrests related to protests at a St. Paul church where demonstrators targeted a pastor allegedly linked to ICE leadership.
The surge has extended beyond Minnesota, with similar tactics reported in other cities like Chicago and Massachusetts, under names such as “Midway Blitz” and “Patriot.” In some cases, agents have asserted the authority to enter homes without warrants, citing exigent circumstances or consent, though legal experts argue this violates Fourth Amendment protections.
Mounting Protests and Legal Challenges
The aggressive nature of these operations has ignited widespread protests across the country. In Minneapolis, thousands have marched daily, chanting slogans like “No ICE, no KKK, no fascist USA,” while similar demonstrations have erupted in Washington, D.C., Cleveland, and Santa Fe. Anti-ICE rallies have even chased off far-right influencers, and in St. Paul, protesters disrupted church services to highlight alleged ties between religious leaders and ICE.
Legal battles are intensifying. A federal appeals court recently froze a district judge’s order that restricted agents from using force, such as tear gas or arrests, against peaceful protesters in Minnesota. States like Minnesota and Illinois have filed lawsuits to halt the surges, arguing they infringe on local authority. Over 100 lawsuits challenge various aspects of Trump’s immigration policies, including indefinite detention and warrantless arrests. Advocacy groups like the Vera Institute warn that these tactics weaponize the system, eroding due process for citizens and noncitizens alike. Calls to abolish ICE have gained traction, with polls showing 46% of Americans supporting the idea.
Mixed Reactions, Even from Trump Supporters
While Trump maintains strong approval among his core base, the crackdown has elicited mixed reactions, including from some who voted for him in 2024. Polls indicate a decline in his immigration approval rating, dropping to around 38-42% in early 2026, with 53% of Americans saying the administration is doing “too much” on deportations. Focus groups in swing states like Pennsylvania reveal frustration among Trump voters, with comments like “ICE is going too far” and concerns over unintended harm to families.
Even Republicans are split: A Reuters/Ipsos poll found 39% prioritizing reducing harm over arrests. Latino voters, a growing demographic, show 68% viewing ICE as too aggressive. This backlash could impact midterm elections, as Democrats seek to capitalize on the outrage to mobilize voters.
Broader Implications for America’s Immigration Future
As ICE expands its crackdown, the operations in Maine and Minneapolis highlight the tensions in Trump’s second term. While aimed at enhancing security, they risk alienating communities, straining local resources, and inviting further legal scrutiny. The administration shows no signs of slowing down, with Trump vowing a “day of reckoning” for non-cooperative states. Yet, with public opinion shifting and protests persisting, the long-term sustainability of this approach remains uncertain. In a nation built on immigration, the debate over enforcement versus humanity continues to divide, shaping the political landscape for years to come.
