US Federal Agents to Wear Body Cameras Nationwide After Minneapolis Protests

Federal agents in Minneapolis will begin wearing body cameras, according to announcements made on Monday, February 2, 2026, by officials including Kristi Noem. The move comes after a period of unrest following the deaths of protestors during immigration enforcement operations and as lawmakers debate federal funding.

Immediate Implementation

The decision to equip agents with body cameras will be implemented immediately, with ICE agents already receiving the devices. According to reports, all immigration officers in Minneapolis will be wearing body cameras. This extends to officers from both ICE and CBP (Customs and Border Protection). Noem stated that the policy will be expanded to include all DHS (Department of Homeland Security) field officers.

Responding to Calls for Reform

The move addresses a key demand from Democratic lawmakers who had stalled budget approvals, seeking reforms to federal agent practices. Specifically, Democrats called for the systematic use of body cameras, a ban on the use of face coverings by agents, and a requirement for judicial warrants before any arrests of immigrants. The budget impasse followed the death of a second protestor during federal law enforcement actions in Minneapolis.

National Expansion

Noem indicated that the body camera program will not be limited to Minneapolis. She stated she had spoken with Tom Homan and ICE leadership regarding the rollout, signaling a broader implementation across the country.

Context of the Decision

The situation in Minneapolis has drawn national attention, with the federal government’s response to protests and immigration enforcement coming under scrutiny. Donald Trump reportedly dispatched Homan to Minneapolis in an attempt to restore order. The implementation of body cameras is seen as a step towards increased transparency and accountability in federal law enforcement operations.