Hilton Hotel’s ICE Ban Sparks National Firestorm

Document with CANCELLED stamp and a fountain pen

A Minnesota hotel’s decision to cancel ICE agents’ bookings has sparked a national debate on immigration and corporate responsibility.

Story Highlights

The Hampton Inn Lakeville canceled ICE agents’ reservations, citing their affiliation with DHS.
DHS accused Hilton of a “coordinated campaign” against federal law enforcement.
Hilton severed ties with the hotel following public backlash and a viral video.
The incident underscores ongoing tensions between immigration enforcement and corporate policies.

Hotel Cancels ICE Agents’ Bookings

On January 2, 2026, the Hampton Inn Lakeville, a Hilton-branded hotel near Minneapolis, canceled reservations for ICE officers. The cancellation was communicated via email, explicitly citing the guests’ affiliation with DHS/ICE. This decision quickly attracted criticism from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which labeled the move as part of a “coordinated campaign” against federal law enforcement.

The hotel’s actions came amid increased ICE operations in Minnesota, targeting alleged fraud within Somali immigrant communities. This escalation highlights the ongoing conflicts between immigration enforcement and businesses perceived as sanctuary supporters. The hotel, operated independently by Everpeak Hospitality, later issued an apology, claiming the cancellations were inconsistent with their policies.

DHS Reaction and Social Media Backlash

The DHS responded swiftly, taking to social media to share screenshots of the cancellation emails, comparing the situation to the Biblical “no room at the inn.” This sparked significant backlash and a polarized debate on social media, with some users calling for a boycott of Hilton. Conservative voices, including notable influencers, amplified the incident, framing it as an attack on law enforcement and a disregard for legal obligations.

As the controversy unfolded, a video surfaced showing the hotel’s front desk continuing to deny DHS bookings. This video, shared by conservative influencer Nick Sortor, further fueled the outrage and led to Hilton’s decision to sever ties with the property. Hilton emphasized its commitment to being welcoming to all and reiterated that the Lakeville location operated independently.

Hilton’s Response and Industry Implications

In response to the public outcry, Hilton announced on January 6, 2026, that it would remove the Lakeville property from its systems, citing a failure to meet brand standards and values. This decision reflects the broader challenges faced by hospitality chains in navigating politically charged situations. The severance of the hotel from the Hilton brand demonstrates the potential consequences for franchisees when corporate policies are perceived as compromised.

The incident has significant implications for the hospitality industry, particularly in areas with heightened political tensions over immigration policies. It underscores the delicate balance businesses must maintain between adhering to corporate policies and addressing public and governmental expectations. As the situation evolves, the focus remains on how hospitality chains will manage similar scenarios and reinforce their commitments to inclusivity and non-discrimination.