1,000 Feds Swarm Minneapolis: Somali Daycares Targeted

(Oldglorychronicle.com)- Trump administration deploys over 1,000 federal agents to Minneapolis targeting alleged welfare fraud by Somali-operated daycares, marking the latest escalation in nationwide immigration enforcement operations.

Story Highlights

DHS surge of approximately 1,000 additional agents focuses on fraud investigation, not mass deportations
Operation triggered by viral video alleging fake Somali daycares receiving federal funds without services
Minnesota officials file lawsuits against federal overreach as community tensions escalate
30-day operation builds on late 2025 ICE raids that detained over 400 immigrants in Minneapolis

Federal Response to Fraud Allegations

The Department of Homeland Security launched a 30-day surge operation deploying approximately 1,000 additional agents from ICE, HSI, and CBP to Minneapolis-St. Paul. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin confirmed the deployment but provided limited details on specific numbers or targets. The operation represents an extension of existing personnel deployments rather than an entirely new immigration crackdown, though total federal presence may exceed 2,000 agents when combined with existing operations.

Viral Video Sparks Government Action

Conservative content creator Nick Shirley produced a 43-minute video alleging that Somali-operated daycares in Minneapolis received federal childcare subsidies without providing actual services. Despite lacking substantiation, the video gained viral attention and amplification from Vice President JD Vance and FBI Director Kash Patel. Daycare operators denied the fraud allegations and reported intimidation tactics, including masked intruders appearing at facilities. This unverified social media content became the catalyst for significant federal resource deployment.

Building on Previous Enforcement Actions

The current surge builds upon late 2025 ICE operations that detained approximately 400 immigrants in Minneapolis, including many Somalis with deportation orders. President Trump has repeatedly linked Minnesota’s Somali population to alleged fraud and crime narratives throughout his political career. The Minneapolis deployment fits within broader Trump administration enforcement patterns, including operations in Washington DC and Memphis involving National Guard support. This represents a fusion of fraud investigation with immigration enforcement targeting specific ethnic communities.

Constitutional Concerns and State Resistance

Minnesota state and local governments filed lawsuits challenging the federal operations as government overreach exceeding constitutional authority. The aggressive deployment raises concerns about targeting communities based on ethnicity rather than evidence-based criminal investigations. Somali community leaders report heightened fear and distrust following reports of intimidation tactics. The operation exemplifies tensions between federal immigration enforcement and state sovereignty, particularly when actions appear driven by unsubstantiated social media content rather than verified intelligence.