Hilton Ousts Franchise After Hidden-Camera Test Shows DHS Ban Still in Place

MINNESOTA (VINnews) – Hilton said Tuesday it is taking immediate action to remove a Minnesota hotel from its franchise system after the property continued to deny accommodations to Department of Homeland Security agents.

“We are taking immediate action to remove this franchise from our system,” Hilton said in a statement, following new claims that the hotel had not reversed its policy despite earlier assurances.

The decision came after independent investigator Nick Sortor went to the hotel posing as a DHS agent to request a room — an interaction he recorded on a hidden camera — and was told by staff that the ban on DHS agents remained in effect.

Sortor accused the operator, EverPeak Hospitality, of issuing a misleading statement after previously saying it was working with DHS and did not discriminate against any agency.

Assistant DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said the department was never contacted by the hotel to resolve the issue. Sortor also said the front desk manager confirmed the policy was still in place after speaking with the owner shortly before his visit.

The episode has renewed scrutiny on Hilton’s oversight of franchisees, as critics say the dispute highlights the reputational risks when local operators take actions that conflict with corporate standards.

🚨 BREAKING EXCLUSIVE: I went into the Minnesota Hilton who “apologized” for banning DHS agents, and EXPOSED them for CONTINUING to ban DHS agents@HiltonHotels has decided they want the FULL BUDLIGHT treatment at this point.

Hilton’s operator, Everpeak, STRAIGHT UP LIED in… pic.twitter.com/3g97P7okpz

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) January 6, 2026

Statement from Hilton on a recent video pic.twitter.com/W8DWUTWD7f

— Hilton Newsroom (@HiltonNewsroom) January 6, 2026

Apparently, @HiltonHotels is terminating the franchise effective immediately. Credit to @nicksortor for his investigative work. https://t.co/DHjh30Dh9p

— Bill Ackman (@BillAckman) January 6, 2026