The president of Wesleyan University has published a blog post praising resistance to federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota. The post frames recent ICE operations as a threat to democracy and applauds those working to counter federal agents. The remarks add to growing tension between academic leadership and federal immigration authorities.
In a blog titled “Minneapolis is Now Ground Zero for Our Democracy,” Michael S. Roth described what he called a “war on Minnesota.” He criticized actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and characterized enforcement efforts as dangerous and destabilizing. Roth wrote that masked and heavily armed agents have created fear in communities and disrupted daily life.
The post highlights conditions in Minneapolis, where protests have erupted in response to expanded immigration enforcement. Roth claimed that families are keeping children home from school and that some institutions have shifted to remote instruction. He wrote that colleges and universities in the region are taking steps to protect students and staff from federal agents.
Roth also cited statements from Tim Walz criticizing federal operations. The blog presents resistance to ICE as a defense of civil liberties and urges higher education institutions to oppose what Roth describes as government overreach. He argued that academic communities should bear witness and stand in solidarity with affected residents.
The article was first reported by Campus Reform, which noted that Roth’s language sharply condemns federal enforcement and openly praises anti-ICE efforts. The controversy underscores a broader national divide over immigration policy, border security, and the role of local institutions in responding to federal law enforcement actions.
Federal immigration enforcement remains a central issue in national politics, with supporters arguing it upholds the rule of law and critics claiming it harms vulnerable communities. University leaders entering the debate signal that the issue continues to expand beyond Washington into classrooms and campuses nationwide.
