Hilton Hotel Evicts ICE Agents in Minnesota Over Safety Concerns
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents faced evictions from the DoubleTree by Hilton in downtown St. Paul. This action stemmed from heightened public safety concerns, prompting the hotel’s temporary closure.
Reservation Changes and Safety Concerns
On January 18, 2026, affected ICE agents received letters notifying them of the cancellation of their bookings. The hotel informed them that all reservations would be voided by noon on that same day. The decision has raised questions regarding the treatment of federal agents in the hospitality industry.
Hotel’s Official Statement
According to the letter, the temporary closure was initiated to ensure the safety of hotel staff and the community. The hotel stated, “We are taking this step out of care for you, our team members, and the surrounding community.” They also characterized the closure as unexpected and offered assistance for new accommodations, including potential refunds.
Context of the Decision
- ICE agents were informed about the cancellations via a letter, which was later shared online.
- The hotel offered to refund the last night’s stay or cover the first night at an alternative location.
This incident follows a series of accusations from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). They claimed that Hilton Hotels had previously refused bookings to ICE agents, alleging a coordinated effort to hinder DHS operations.
DHS Response and Industry Reaction
The DHS stated that their agents experienced cancellations when booking rooms at Hilton. They described the situation as unacceptable, questioning Hilton’s commitment to supporting law enforcement. Allegations were made that hotel staff actively searched for information on guests to identify federal agents.
Community and Expert Opinions
Critics have voiced concerns about the implications of such actions for law enforcement. David Bier from the Cato Institute noted that businesses should have the freedom to choose their clientele. He stated, “Hilton is a rational business and should be free to provide service or not to anyone it pleases.”
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between hospitality services and federal enforcement agencies, raising significant discussions about public safety and law enforcement relations in American communities.
