In a forceful address on federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis, JD Vance sharply criticized local officials for obstructing law enforcement efforts. “Why doesn’t it make more sense for local cops to get involved?… The reason it hasn’t happened here is because local authorities have been told ‘stand down’, do not help ICE, promote the violence,” Vance said.
Vice President JD Vance on Minnesota:
— America (@america) January 22, 2026
“Why doesn't it make more sense for local cops to get involved?… The reason it hasn't happened here is because local authorities have been told ‘stand down’, do not help ICE, promote the violence…”
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Speaking alongside federal law enforcement officers, Vance painted a vivid picture of chaos in the city, describing how ICE agents are sometimes harassed or doxed while performing their duties. He stressed that local beat cops often want to help, but elected officials have allegedly instructed them not to cooperate, leaving federal officers to handle both enforcement and protection duties in an increasingly tense environment.
Vance cited examples from other jurisdictions, such as Austin, Texas, and Memphis, Tennessee, where cooperation between local and federal authorities allows immigration operations to proceed smoothly. “Cooperation would make our lives easier, make officers safer, and make Minneapolis much less chaotic,” he said.
Highlighting the human impact, Vance recounted an incident where a child was temporarily detained during an ICE arrest—not because the child had committed a crime, but to ensure their safety. He framed these situations as preventable with proper collaboration: “With cooperation from state and local officials, the chaos would decrease dramatically.”
The speech comes amid heightened tensions in Minneapolis, where federal enforcement actions have sparked protests and criticism. Vance’s remarks underline his position that much of the disruption is a result of local noncooperation rather than federal overreach.
