While the feds say the operation targeted public safety threats or the worst of the worst, a WCCO investigation found people with no criminal history have also been picked up.

The Minnesota governor is proposing one-time forgivable loans for small businesses in the state impacted by Operation Metro Surge as part of a $10 million relief package.

But even if federal immigration agents take the last chopper out of St. Paul, there are a plethora of what can very euphemistically be called loose ends to the enforcement operation. Here is our best read on next steps, especially as the Minnesota Legislature returns for its 2026 session next week.

The proposal would include funds — ranging from $2,500 to $25,000 — distributed as forgivable loans to businesses that show "substantial" revenue loss.