Eric C. Tostrud dismissed a Department of Justice lawsuit seeking to invalidate state and local sanctuary policies during the second term of President Trump.

Eric C. Tostrud, the chief judge for the District of Minnesota, dismissed a Department of Justice lawsuit aimed at invalidating various state and local "sanctuary" policies. These policies limit the cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies. The administration announced the lawsuit in September, challenging specific rules in Minnesota and Hennepin County that prevent local authorities from sharing data or holding individuals for federal immigration officials. The ruling relies on the Tenth Amendment’s anticommandeering doctrine, which prevents the federal government from forcing state and local governments to perform tasks that are primarily federal responsibilities. This legal victory comes as the administration continues to navigate friction with local leaders. For example, Fresno City Attorney Andrew Janz expressed frustration after the administration threatened to withhold grant money from Fresno because the city was designated as a refuge for immigrants. The decision follows a period of intense activity, including Operation Metro Surge, where rioters gathered to protest the arrest of thousands of illegal immigrants.

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