Three Minnesota Congressional representatives were denied access during an oversight visit to the regional ICE headquarters located in the Twin Cities. Representatives Ilhan Omar, Angie Craig, and Kelly Morrison arrived at the Whipple Building at Fort Snelling shortly after 9 a.m. on Saturday, but were escorted out roughly 30 minutes later.
The Whipple Building serves as the federal facility housing the regional ICE office and immigration court. The representatives stated their visit was a part of their oversight responsibilities to ensure accountability in immigration practices.
This incident follows a historical context where, since 2020, appropriations bills for the Department of Homeland Security have included provisions for Congressional members to conduct oversight visits at detention facilities. Notably, a recent court ruling affirmed that the Trump administration could not prohibit these visits nor mandate prior notice from lawmakers.
In a related move, South Dakota’s Governor Kristi Noem had previously asked for at least seven days’ notice for such visits, citing safety concerns. However, despite the court’s ruling, she issued a new directive just the day before the representatives’ attempt, requiring the same advance notice unless directly approved by her.
Notably, this directive references funding from the One Big Beautiful Bill, which is said to lack stipulations regarding Congressional access, a point that aligns with previous judicial conclusions that certain facilities funded by this omnibus bill are not obliged to allow visits.
The timing of the representatives’ visit coincides with heightened tensions in the Twins Cities following the recent shooting of Renee Nicole Good, 37, by an ICE officer, an event that has triggered protests and unrest in the area.
Upon entry to the Whipple Building, the representatives communicated that they were initially welcomed, but shortly thereafter, officials appeared to rescind the invitation. Rep. Omar expressed her disappointment, stating that they came to fulfill their Congressional responsibilities and were shocked to have their access denied after gaining entry with the approval of a veteran staff member aware of their role.
This event highlights the increasing scrutiny on ICE and immigration enforcement operations, particularly in light of the recent tragic events that have unsettled the community. The push for accountability and transparency in immigration practices remains a significant concern for both lawmakers and constituents alike.