Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, along with the cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, filed an amended federal lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on April 21. The updated complaint incorporates new data showing significant harm caused by Operation Metro Surge to residents and businesses in both cities.
The amendment includes survey results that estimate more than $240 million in lost wages for Minneapolis and Saint Paul residents during the operation. Businesses in these cities reportedly lost over $600 million in revenue. The surveys, conducted by researchers at the University of California San Diego, also reveal evidence of racial bias in DHS enforcement actions.
Attorney General Ellison said, “During the unlawful Operation Metro Surge, DHS agents took the lives of two Minnesotans and caused severe harm to countless more residents of our state, to cities like Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and to the state of Minnesota itself.” He added that ongoing data collection is strengthening their case against DHS: “We are fighting to have Operation Metro Surge declared unlawful to protect Minnesota from ever having to endure another violent, painful, and destructive federal occupation again.”
Saint Paul Mayor Kaohly Her commented on the economic consequences: “Operation Metro Surge dealt a serious blow to Saint Paul’s economy. I remain committed to fighting for our communities: advocating, rebuilding, and directing resources toward recovery wherever they’re needed most. Many businesses, especially in communities of color, are still grappling with the lasting impacts of the Trump administration’s actions. No community should have to endure what ours has faced. This new information brings sharper clarity to the scale of the damage and strengthens our resolve to move forward.”
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said about public safety concerns: “Operation Metro Surge should never have happened. It wasn’t public safety—it was chaos. Neighbors felt it, small businesses paid the price, and everyday life was put on hold. But Minneapolis won’t back down. We’re challenging this operation in court, and today’s filing only strengthens our case.”
The lawsuit alleges violations under both constitutional amendments as well as federal law procedures related to how such operations are carried out by DHS agents—including policies regarding mask-wearing by agents; arrest practices; alleged racial profiling; seizures; roving patrols; and negative effects on trust between law enforcement agencies and local communities.
Broader implications from these findings suggest ongoing difficulties for affected individuals seeking medical care or interacting with law enforcement due to reduced trust following encounters during Operation Metro Surge.
The next steps involve pursuing legal remedies through federal court proceedings while city officials continue efforts toward community recovery.
