Hilton has removed the Hampton Inn Lakeville in Minnesota from its brand system after the hotel denied rooms to federal immigration agents. The independent franchise made headlines last week when it refused to book rooms for Department of Homeland Security (DHS) staff once their identities were revealed.
Hilton initially apologised on Monday, stating that the hotel owner had assured them the issue was resolved. However, a video posted by conservative social media personality Nick Sortor on Tuesday showed a front desk operator claiming the policy forbidding DHS employees remained in effect. Hilton then announced immediate removal of the hotel from its system, saying the actions did not meet their standards and values.
The Trump administration accused Hilton of a coordinated campaign to refuse service to DHS employees. DHS posted on X that officers' reservations were cancelled when they used official government emails and rates, calling it unacceptable. Screenshots shared by DHS showed messages from the hotel cancelling reservations due to immigration work connections.
Everpeak Hospitality, which operates the Lakeville Hampton Inn, issued a statement saying the cancellation was inconsistent with their policy of being a welcoming place for all and that they do not discriminate. Hilton said it is working with franchisees to reinforce standards to prevent such incidents.
