The Department of Homeland Security has accused a Hilton property in Minneapolis of canceling reservations for ICE agents, calling it a coordinated campaign to undermine immigration enforcement. Screenshots of emails from the hotel revealed a policy against hosting DHS and immigration personnel. Hilton stated the hotel operates independently and is investigating the incident.
On January 5, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) publicly criticized Hilton Hotels via a post on X, alleging that a hotel in Minneapolis had initiated a "coordinated campaign" to deny service to federal law enforcement officers from DHS and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The post included screenshots of two emails from the Hampton Inn Lakeville property, where staff canceled bookings made with official government emails and rates.
One email stated: "After further investigation online, we have found information about immigration work connected with your name and we will be canceling your upcoming reservation." It added that a formal cancellation notice would follow from Hilton.
The second email elaborated on the hotel's stance: "We have noticed an influx of GOV reservations made today that have been for DHS, and we are not allowing any ICE or immigration agents to stay at our property. If you are with DHS or immigration, let us know as we will have to cancel your reservation." It urged the recipient to inform colleagues of the policy prohibiting immigration agents from staying there.
DHS's post began with "NO ROOM AT THE INN!" and questioned why the hotel chain would "sid[e] with murderers and rapists to deliberately undermine and impede DHS law enforcement from their mission to enforce our nation’s immigration laws."
In response, Hilton clarified that the property is independently owned and operated. A statement read: "Hilton hotels serve as welcoming places for all. This hotel is independently owned and operated, and the actions referenced are not reflective of Hilton values. We are investigating this matter with this individual hotel."
The incident highlights tensions between private businesses and federal immigration efforts, though Hilton emphasized the actions do not align with its broader policies.
