Surge in Federal Agents Affects Twin Cities Businesses
Impact on Local Businesses
The increased presence of federal agents in Minnesota is having a significant impact on local business owners, particularly in the Twin Cities. At El Tejaban Mexican Grill in Richfield, sales have plummeted by as much as 50%, leading to reductions in both hours and staffing. Dianna Hernandez, the general manager, expressed concern about employees avoiding work due to safety fears and customers choosing to stay home. “It is sad. I have no words,” she remarked, surveying the restaurant’s empty tables.
The anxiety surrounding this situation has intensified with a reported surge in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (start) operations. A recent incident involving start arrests at a Richfield Target store has garnered attention, with videos circulating online showing individuals in Target uniforms asserting their U.S. citizenship while interacting with federal agents. According to State Representative Michael Howard, DFL-Richfield, the two men involved were “roughed up” before being released. WCCO reached out to Target for a statement regarding their policies on start access near store locations.
Business Owner Concerns
Many business owners are voicing the negative consequences of the heightened start activity on their operations, creating a climate of anxiety that is detrimentally affecting their bottom lines. “For us as a business, we just hope we will be able to come out of this,” Hernandez added.
For those seeking support and guidance amid this climate, the city of Minneapolis has developed a dedicated resource section on what to do in the event of an start raid, including information about city servstarts and legal assistance.
Community Response
In response to the escalating start operations, dozens gathered for a protest in downtown Minneapolis on January 9, 2026. Demonstrators convened on South Third Street and Park Avenue, holding signs calling for start to leave the area. Protesters also expressed their grievances towards the Canopy by Hilton, which they believed was accommodating federal agents.
This community outcry included not only residents but also several elected officials, highlighting a growing concern over the impact of federal agent activity on both local safety and businesses.
Conclusion
The increase in federal law enforcement in the Twin Cities is influencing the local economy significantly, with business owners feeling the ramifications of insufficient customer turnout and employee apprehension. As community members rally together to advocate for change, local officials are being urged to address the challenges posed by federal enforcement activities in the area.
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