St. Paul Protests Erupt After Federal Agents Deploy Tear Gas

Unprecedented Clash in Payne-Phalen Neighborhood

Tensions erupted in St. Paul, Minnesota, on November 25, 2025, when federal agents and local police clashed with protesters in the city's Payne-Phalen neighborhood. The confrontation began after a large crowd gathered in response to an apparent federal law enforcement operation that residents believed to be an ICE raid near Maryland and Payne Avenues.

Masked federal agents – including personnel from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the U.S. Marshals Service – were observed at the scene, accompanied by St. Paul officers in riot gear. Protesters held anti-ICE signs and chanted as agents conducted operations at a residential residence. The situation escalated dramatically when authorities deployed chemical irritants to disperse the crowd.

Escalation of Force

"This is completely unacceptable," declared St. Paul City Councilmember Hwa Jeong Kim, who was reportedly tear-gassed alongside other elected officials. "The St. Paul Police Department work for us, every single person on this street."

Video footage captured chaotic scenes as police deployed tear gas canisters and pepper balls after protesters threw objects at officers. A WCCO news crew documented the unrest, showing officers attempting to leave the area while being blocked by demonstrators. The deployment of chemical irritants drew swift condemnation from community leaders and residents alike.

Official Responses

Mayor Melvin Carter arrived at the scene, expressing frustration with federal authorities' lack of communication. "They don't coordinate with us," Carter stated. "They don't give us the information in advance... They sort of – what they do nationwide – pop up on the scene and create chaos and then leave."

The mayor confirmed that all St. Paul officers wear body cameras and pledged a full investigation into the use of force. Governor Tim Walz also weighed in, noting: "We received no heads up from federal authorities on this operation."

Context of Tensions

This incident follows last week's controversial raid at Bro-Tex, Inc., where federal agents arrested 14 individuals during an immigration operation. St. Paul Police Chief Axel Henry previously clarified that the city's police force "does not do anything that is solely immigration focused," though they assist federal partners when situations escalate.

Protesters and community advocates have questioned whether Tuesday's operation was another immigration enforcement action, though federal officials have not confirmed the nature of the investigation. Agents on scene told FOX 9 they were searching for two individuals, one of whom had fled into a nearby home.

What Happens Next?

The St. Paul Mayor's office has vowed to review the police department's use-of-force policies during the protest. City Councilmember Kim called residents to be "infuriated by this action" and demanded accountability. Meanwhile, community organizers are planning further demonstrations, emphasizing the need for transparency from all levels of government.

As investigations continue, the incident has intensified scrutiny over federal immigration enforcement practices in Minnesota and their impact on local communities. The city's leadership faces mounting pressure to prevent similar confrontations while addressing residents' concerns about federal overreach.

Community Voices

The clash has highlighted deep divisions in St. Paul over federal immigration policies. Protesters argue that aggressive tactics terrorize immigrant communities, while law enforcement officials maintain they were responding to threats against officers during a lawful operation.

"Our separation ordinance very clearly says we cooperate with our federal partners," Chief Henry stated last week, emphasizing that St. Paul police assist when federal agents request help during emergencies.

With winter weather approaching and schools dismissing early due to a storm, the community remains on edge. The incident has sparked broader conversations about local control in immigration enforcement and the rights of residents to protest without fear of chemical retaliation.