DOJ Sues Minnesota Over Tuition Aid for Undocumented Immigrants

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Minnesota and Governor Tim Walz, targeting the state’s Dream Act—a 2013 law that grants in-state tuition and financial aid to undocumented immigrants pursuing higher education. The DOJ argues the program discriminates against out-of-state U.S. citizens, violating the Equal Protection Clause.

Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that “no state can treat Americans as second-class citizens,” referencing a recent DOJ win in Texas on a similar issue. The lawsuit names State Attorney General Keith Ellison and the Minnesota Office of Higher Education as co-defendants.

Governor Walz, who gained national attention as the Democratic vice presidential nominee in 2024, defended the program. He acknowledged political challenges but has not yet issued a formal legal response. Ellison is expected to lead the defense.

The lawsuit is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to eliminate what it sees as state-level “preferential treatment” for non-citizens. A recent executive order by Trump instructs all federal agencies to review and remove policies that benefit undocumented immigrants over citizens.

Adding momentum, the Supreme Court ruled 6–3 to limit nationwide injunctions, a move that strengthens Trump’s legal position. The decision paves the way for stalled policies—like restricting birthright citizenship—to proceed.

At stake is more than just college aid. The legal battle underscores a larger debate over immigration, federal power, and the definition of who qualifies for the benefits and rights of American residency.