The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) disclosed Monday that federal immigration officers faced blocked reservations at Minneapolis-area Hilton properties after hotel staff discovered their government affiliations.
Officers attempting to secure accommodations using official government email addresses had their bookings abruptly terminated.
The cancellations occurred at multiple locations in the Minneapolis area, including the Hampton Inn Lakeville.
A Friday afternoon email from hotel staff to a government employee stated their reservation would be cancelled.
“After further investigation online, we have found information about immigration work connected with your name and we will be cancelling your upcoming reservation. You should see a proper cancellation email in your inbox shortly from Hilton,” the message read.
Another communication from hotel management revealed a broader policy decision.
The email noted an increase in government reservations that day connected to DHS operations.
“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,” the correspondence stated.
Hotel staff requested that federal officers inform colleagues about the new restrictions.
“Please pass on this info to your coworkers that we are not allowing any immigration agents to house on our property,” the email concluded.
Hilton Hotels corporate headquarters responded to the incident with a statement distancing itself from the actions.
The company told Fox News that the properties involved operate independently.
“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, and can confirm that Hilton works with governments, law enforcement, and community leaders around the world to ensure our properties are open and inviting to everyone,” the statement read.
DHS issued a strongly worded response questioning the hotel chain’s position.
“This is UNACCEPTABLE. Why is Hilton Hotels siding with murderers and rapists to deliberately undermine and impede DHS law enforcement from their mission to enforce our nation’s immigration laws?” DHS stated.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement also addressed the situation directly on social media.
“Hey Hilton Hotels — why did your team in Minneapolis cancel our federal law enforcement officer and agents’ reservations?” ICE wrote.
Documents reviewed show correspondence copied an email address from Everpeak Hotels.
Social media users identified the franchisee connection, with one noting the decision appeared to originate from “EverPeak Hospitality, and not Hilton corporate.”
The incident triggered immediate backlash on social media platforms.
Multiple accounts called for boycotts of Hilton properties nationwide.
Popular social media personality Catturd questioned the hotel chain’s stance toward law enforcement. “Wow. Why does Hilton Hotels hate law enforcement? I’ll make sure to never stay there ever,” the post stated.
Investigative journalist Laura Loomer indicated she would reconsider her lodging choices. “Wow. Looks like I’m going to have to reconsider staying at Hilton Hotels,” she wrote.
Social media commentator Gunther Eagleman urged followers to avoid the hotel chain entirely.
“Make sure you DO NOT choose a Hilton Hotels when booking a room or a vacation. Fck them,” he posted.
