A federal judge has temporarily blocked a controversial Trump-era immigration enforcement program in Minnesota, ordering the immediate release of refugees detained under Operation PARRIS. The January 2026 ruling comes as tensions rise over refugee rights and government oversight. 🏛️⚖️
"Without Warrants or Cause"
U.S. District Judge John Tunheim declared refugees awaiting permanent residency status have legal rights to live and work freely, stating: "We abandon our ideals when we subject neighbors to fear and chaos." The order allows status reviews but bans arrests of refugees who've already passed rigorous federal vetting.
Operation PARRIS Under Fire
The program – launched this month to re-examine 5,600 refugees' legal status – faced criticism following two civilian deaths during enforcement actions. Advocates cheered the ruling as a win for due process, while Trump policy architect Stephen Miller called it "judicial sabotage of democracy" on social media.
What’s Next?
With the 2026 political landscape heating up, this ruling reignites debates about immigration reform. As one local activist told us: "This isn’t just about policy – it’s about people building lives here." 📢✊
