MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | MINNESOTA: National Guard Deployment During Operation Metro Surge Estimated at $5.2 Million

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

The deployment of the Minnesota National Guard during Operation Metro Surge earlier this year is expected to cost the state approximately $5.2 million, according to the Minnesota Department of Military Affairs. Officials say the final total is still being calculated.

Governor Tim Walz activated the National Guard from January 8 through February 25, 2026, citing an “abundance of caution” following two fatal incidents involving federal agents in Minneapolis.

Authorities identified the individuals as Renee Nicole Macklin Good, who was fatally shot on January 7 during an immigration enforcement encounter, and Alex Jeffrey Pretti, who was fatally shot on January 24 during a separate enforcement operation.

The deployment occurred during a large-scale federal immigration enforcement effort coordinated in part through the Department of Homeland Security. The incidents prompted protests and heightened public safety concerns across the Twin Cities.

According to state officials, National Guard personnel were assigned to support local law enforcement with:

• Protecting lives
• Preserving property
• Assisting with public safety operations
• Supporting the right to peaceful assembly

The estimated $5.2 million cost includes personnel activation, operational support, and logistical expenses over the seven-week period.

Additional costs were incurred at the local level during the same timeframe:

• The City of Minneapolis reported approximately $6 million in total operational expenses
• The Minneapolis Police Department recorded about $3 million in overtime during peak unrest
• The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office reported approximately $1.3 million in overtime and emergency staffing costs

Preliminary city data also indicates broader economic impacts, including an estimated $203 million in losses in Minneapolis, attributed to business disruptions, reduced consumer activity, and lost wages. Officials estimate approximately $47 million in wages were lost during the period.

State lawmakers are expected to review the financial and policy implications of Operation Metro Surge as the legislative session resumes. Discussions may include potential federal reimbursement, oversight of future operations, and public safety funding structures.

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