“The United States is the American dream, that’s what they call it. But no, it wasn’t like that,” said J, a Venezuelan immigrant whose life took a drastic turn when his temporary protected status was revoked. This statement encapsulates the struggles faced by many in Baldwin, Wisconsin, as federal immigration enforcement actions have intensified in recent months.
As of January and February 2026, more than 50 individuals were taken by federal agents in Baldwin, a town that is over 95% white and leans Republican. The local immigrant population has grown in recent years, leading to a complex dynamic in a community that has historically been less diverse. Residents have reported feeling unsafe, prompting the formation of mutual aid networks aimed at supporting families affected by deportations.
J’s wife was taken by federal agents in February 2026, a situation that has left him and others in the community grappling with fear and uncertainty. Local business owner Jairo Sarango, who runs EcuaMarket, has experienced a significant decline in customers as residents feel uncomfortable leaving their homes. The atmosphere in Baldwin has shifted dramatically, with many questioning the role of local law enforcement in immigration enforcement.
At a recent village board meeting, four residents spoke out against ICE actions, expressing their concerns about the impact on the community. Jenelle Ludwig Krause, one of the speakers, stated, “This is a super important fight. I care very deeply about what happens in Baldwin and what kind of community I’m part of.” This sentiment reflects a growing resistance among residents who are increasingly vocal about their opposition to federal immigration policies.
What observers say
Julie N, another resident, remarked, “I really think that they came into small towns thinking there would be no resistance.” This observation highlights the perception that immigration enforcement may target smaller communities under the assumption that they would not push back against such actions. The Department of Homeland Security has defended its operations, with a spokesperson stating, “Every day, DHS enforces the laws of the nation across the country including in Minnesota and Wisconsin to keep Americans safe.” This statement underscores the federal government’s commitment to its immigration policies, even as local communities express their dissent.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific reasons Baldwin was targeted by immigration enforcement agents. The Trump administration had previously promised mass deportations, yet the actual number of deportations carried out by ICE has not been regularly disclosed to the public. As of July 2024, ICE had identified 435,000 unauthorized immigrants with criminal convictions in the United States who were not in custody.
As of the end of May 2025, ICE had arrested 752 non-citizens convicted of murder and 1,693 convicted of sexual assault. These figures illustrate the federal government’s focus on individuals with criminal backgrounds, yet the impact on communities like Baldwin raises questions about the broader implications of such enforcement actions.
In Baldwin, the tension between federal immigration enforcement and community safety continues to grow. Local residents are left to navigate the complexities of their changing environment, as they seek to support one another in the face of uncertainty and fear. The situation remains fluid, with many in the community advocating for a more humane approach to immigration policy.
