Hotel SLAMS ICE—Trump Strikes Back

(NationalFreedomPress.com) – A Minnesota hotel brazenly refused rooms to ICE agents hunting murderers and rapists, only to face swift justice from Hilton and the federal government under President Trump.

Story Highlights

Hampton Inn Lakeville canceled DHS/ICE reservations on January 2, 2026, explicitly barring immigration agents amid Twin Cities enforcement operations.
Undercover video exposed staff defiance even after the owner’s apology, prompting Hilton to sever ties and GSA to terminate federal lodging access.
Incident underscores Trump administration’s resolve to back law enforcement against local resistance to deporting criminals.
Hotel loses Hilton branding, federal contracts worth ~130 nights yearly, setting precedent for non-discrimination in federal programs.

Hotel Cancels ICE Bookings Amid Deportation Surge

On January 2, 2026, Hampton Inn Lakeville staff sent emails canceling reservations for ICE and DHS agents. The messages stated, “we are not allowing any ICE or immigration agents to stay at our property” and urged recipients to inform coworkers. Agents had booked using official government emails for operations in Minnesota’s Twin Cities. This followed a massive ICE sweep arresting over 1,000 criminals, including murderers, rapists, and pedophiles. The hotel, operated by Everpeak Hospitality as an independent Hilton franchise, previously hosted federal guests for about 130 nights in 2025 via the GSA FedRooms program.

Federal Agencies Expose Refusal, Owner Apologizes

DHS and ICE shared redacted emails publicly on X around January 5-6, 2026, accusing the hotel of a coordinated refusal. Everpeak Hospitality issued an apology that day, pledging to welcome all guests and re-accommodate affected agents. Freelance journalist Nick Sortor then released a viral video on January 6 morning, capturing front desk staff confirming they would continue denying ICE/DHS bookings. This contradicted the owner’s resolution claim. The incident occurred in Lakeville, a Minneapolis suburb, under new GSA Administrator Edward C. Forst, sworn in December 24, 2025.

Swift Termination Reinforces Law Enforcement Support

GSA terminated the hotel from the FedRooms program effective immediately on January 6, citing clear violations and affirming support for federal law enforcement. Hilton removed the property from its systems and website, with CEO Chris Nassetta personally engaging to reinforce non-discrimination standards. Hilton stated a recent video raised concerns, prompting immediate action against the franchisee. Shareholder Bill Ackman praised Nassetta’s response, noting his outstanding leadership and respect from President Trump. Agents received re-accommodations elsewhere.

Impacts Highlight Federal Leverage Over Resistance

The hotel faces short-term revenue losses from lost federal bookings and Hilton branding, plus long-term exclusion from all GSA lodging programs. This sets a precedent for enforcing compliance in federal travel for 4 million workers. Politically, it bolsters the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement narrative against sanctuary-like local pushback. Socially, it reignites debates on private business rights versus non-discrimination for government personnel upholding the law. Hospitality chains now face heightened scrutiny on franchisee practices.

Broader Implications for Conservative Priorities

Under President Trump, this episode demonstrates rapid federal response to obstacles in deporting dangerous criminals, protecting American communities. It counters leftist resistance to border security and law enforcement, a frustration for patriots weary of open borders and sanctuary policies. Hilton’s decisive cut ties with the defiant franchisee upholds fairness, aligning with conservative values of accountability and support for those enforcing federal law. No evidence suggests broader Hilton policy issues; focus remains on isolated defiance.