Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) renewed her call to abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), following the detention of 11 Iranian nationals by the agency.
Tlaib was approached by independent journalist Nicholas Ballasy at the Capitol, who asked whether the rhetoric used by politicians against ICE might have influenced recent demonstrations in Los Angeles.
Responding, Tlaib emphasized that her criticism of ICE has long roots, dating back to its creation in 2003.
She noted that Detroit, being a border city, has experienced issues with ICE agents under both Republican and Democratic administrations.
Tlaib recounted specific incidents involving ICE in her district, including one in which an agent allegedly followed someone into a neighborhood without a warrant and detained a long-time community member.
She argued that her opposition to ICE is based on constitutional principles. “It’s pro-due process,” she said, claiming that ICE agents have repeatedly violated civil rights, according to stories shared by her constituents.
Tlaib stated that border community members, especially those with mixed immigration status, have for years complained that ICE operates outside legal norms, per the Conservative Brief.
She said this sentiment has persisted across multiple presidential administrations.
The congresswoman described ICE as a “rogue” agency and claimed