Sioux Falls Voices Opposition to Statewide Operation Prairie Thunder Immigration Plan

Operation Prairie Thunder, a public safety initiative recently announced by South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden, has sparked significant opposition in Sioux Falls, particularly among immigrant and Hispanic communities. The plan includes increased law enforcement presence and collaboration with ICE to enforce immigration laws, which residents fear will create fear, discrimination, and disrupt daily life. At a packed Sioux Falls City Council meeting, many community members expressed concerns about the initiative's impact on families and questioned the allocation of funds, suggesting resources would be better spent on education and social programs. Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken and local law enforcement clarified that the immigration enforcement aspect is a state-led effort with no direct involvement from the city, emphasizing that local policing approaches remain unchanged. Critics, including community leaders and immigrant residents, argue that the initiative damages trust between law enforcement and minority communities and is unnecessary given the city’s low crime rates and lack of a significant undocumented immigration problem. The controversy highlights tensions between state and local authorities over immigration enforcement and the broader implications for immigrant communities in Sioux Falls.