Court Documents Reveal Federal Surveillance of Minnesota Unions and Progressive Groups

Federal agents conducted an extensive undercover surveillance operation, dubbed 'Operation Puppet Master,' targeting Minnesota labor unions, progressive organizations, and groups protesting federal immigration enforcement. Court documents released on Thursday, August 14, 2026, revealed that agents attended lawful meetings, monitored communications, and examined financial information of at least 18 identified organizations, including the Service Employees International Union and the AFL-CIO. The operation was reportedly aimed at identifying a network supporting 'violent agitators' during demonstrations against immigration enforcement in Minneapolis.