The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) publicly accused Hilton Hotels of canceling reservations for law enforcement officers involved in immigration enforcement in Minnesota. DHS claimed this was a coordinated campaign to refuse service to their officers, sharing screenshots that appeared to show a Hampton Inn in Lakeville, Minnesota, rejecting reservations made with official government emails and rates due to the guests' affiliation with Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE).
Hilton Hotels stated that the hotel in question is independently owned and operated, and that the actions taken did not reflect the company's values. A spokesperson for Hilton indicated they had contacted the hotel, which apologized for the actions of its staff, stating it was not in line with their policies. The hotel operator, Everpeak Hospitality, echoed this sentiment, asserting their commitment to being a welcoming place for all and apologizing to the impacted guests, while emphasizing they do not discriminate against any individuals or agencies.
This incident occurred as the Trump administration investigates alleged fraud involving taxpayer dollars in Minnesota, with federal prosecutors charging and convicting numerous individuals in a scheme involving theft from Medicaid programs. President Trump has been vocal about this scandal, criticizing Minnesota's governor and the Somali community in the state. The administration has also explored revoking citizenship from those involved in the fraud.