Kid Rock’s Big A** Honky Tonk Rock N’ Roll Steakhouse temporarily closed its doors due to enforcement warnings following Nashville’s most recent ICE operation targeting criminal illegal immigrants. President Trump’s pledged dedication to immigration enforcement and public safety was demonstrated by the federal crackdown, which apprehended 196 migrants, 95 of whom had prior criminal convictions.
ICE Enforcement Removes Criminal Elements from Nashville Streets
Federal immigration authorities conducted a major operation in Nashville, successfully apprehending nearly 200 illegal immigrants with significant criminal backgrounds. The operation specifically targeted gang members, sex offenders, and violent criminals threatening community safety.
Kid Rock’s Nashville restaurant sent home staff in fear of ICE raid, report says https://t.co/H5aFu1flYP pic.twitter.com/HnPJFsKkUU
— The Independent (@Independent) May 16, 2025
Among those arrested was an individual with ties to the notorious MS-13 gang, along with numerous drug dealers and violent offenders. ICE collaborated with the Tennessee Highway Patrol to execute this comprehensive enforcement action to remove dangerous individuals from Nashville communities.
Kid Rock’s Venue Among Businesses Affected by Immigration Enforcement
The popular downtown Nashville restaurant bearing Kid Rock’s name temporarily closed when word of the impending raids spread among staff. Employees reportedly fled the establishment after receiving warnings about the ICE operation, causing disruption during what would typically be busy operating hours.
BREAKING: Washed-up MAGA rapper Kid Rock gets caught in a massive scandal as his Nashville restaurant temporarily closes to avoid ICE raids targeting his undocumented workers.
The hypocrisy is almost too much to bear…
According to The Guardian, "Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk… pic.twitter.com/LmULqg7meH
— Occupy Democrats (@OccupyDemocrats) May 15, 2025
Steve Smith, a known Trump supporter who owns several Nashville establishments, including the Kid Rock venue, experienced direct business impacts from the enforcement action. The incident highlights the real-world economic effects when immigration enforcement intersects with the hospitality industry, which often employs immigrant workers.
Political Tensions Emerge Over Immigration Enforcement
Nashville’s mayor faced criticism for allegedly opposing the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement priorities. Republican Representative Andy Ogles publicly condemned the mayor’s stance, suggesting it interfered with federal authorities’ ability to enforce immigration laws.
“By ordering city agencies to monitor and potentially sabotage ICE operations, he has crossed a dangerous line — using the power of government to shield criminal illegal aliens from the law.” – Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended the operation, emphasizing its focus on public safety rather than random enforcement. She stated, “President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue to stand with victims and the brave ICE agents who are on the frontlines making America safe again.”
The 196 arrests included individuals with serious criminal histories, validating federal authorities’ targeted approach to removal operations. This enforcement action aligns with the Trump administration’s promises to prioritize the removal of illegal immigrants who pose threats to American communities through criminal activity.
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