Tom Homan praises Tim Walz, Jacob Frey for bipartisan progress in Minnesota’s immigration crackdown
WASHINGTON, DC: White House border czar Tom Homan on Sunday, February 15, praised Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for helping him fight illegal immigration.
Homan explained that working together with the Democratic leaders has led to progress that many people did not think was possible.
Tom Homan, Tim Walz reach Immigration Cooperation Agreement
Speaking on CNN’s 'State of the Union,' Homan explained that he chose to meet with the Democratic leaders because he believes you have to talk to people you disagree with to solve problems.
He told Jake Tapper, “You can’t fix problems talking in an echo chamber; you got to talk to the people that you may disagree with.”
Homan admitted he was surprised by the progress they made together, saying, “I’ve gotten agreements in Minnesota I never thought we’d be able to get. And I got to give credit to the governor, we had a good conversation.”
Tom Homan credits Frey for illegal roadblock removal
Homan explained that because Governor Tim Walz cooperated, state prisons are now helping federal immigration officers by sharing information about non-citizen prisoners. He also gave credit to Mayor Jacob Frey for helping keep the streets safe during a tense time.
Homan remarked, “And Mayor Frey and me will never agree on much, but you know what? His officers did respond to take down illegal roadblocks that made it unsafe for not only the citizens of Minnesota, but our officers.”
While other officials slammed the Minnesota leaders for causing trouble, Homan said having different styles is actually a good thing.
He explained, “Do me and secretary Noem agree on everything? No, We have discussions and we have different opinions. That’s what makes it a strong team. We bring different ideas to the table.”
Tom Homan ends federal surge, keeps fraud probe active
Earlier, on Thursday, because of this new teamwork, Homan announced that the heavy federal presence in the city is ending. He explained that the coordination between federal and local teams had reached a point where thousands of extra agents were no longer needed.
Confirming the end of the mission, Homan stated, “I have proposed, and President Trump has concurred, that this surge operation conclude.” He believes that being able to send these agents home is a sign that the administration’s plan worked.
However, while the massive surge is over, Homan clarified that federal work is not finished. He noted that while many agents are leaving, “Special agents will remain in Minnesota to investigate benefit fraud and document fraud,” ensuring that investigators continue to look into those who may have cheated the system.
