Judge issues restraining order banning ICE retaliation against peaceful protesters

60-Second Summary

Late Friday, U.S. District Judge Katherine Menendez issued a temporary restraining order barring federal agents in Minnesota from retaliating against peaceful protesters, including arrests, detentions, or chemical irritants, and from stopping noninterfering drivers or passengers. The order covers people recording, observing, or protesting Operation Metro Surge, ongoing since Dec. 4, 2025. Minnesota, Minneapolis, and St. Paul sued to halt the ICE surge, citing harm such as the shooting of Renee Nicole Good. The lawsuit calls the influx of at least 2,100 officers and investigators unlawful; DHS criticized local leaders’ opposition to ICE.