DHS calls on Democrats to tone down anti-ICE rhetoric as violence surges
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is urging Democrats to dial down their rhetoric against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents as riots continue in Los Angeles and threats of violence and doxxing persist. The department has specifically called out California leaders, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz for their inflammatory comments.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized California leaders for not denouncing the violence against ICE agents during the riots in Los Angeles. She emphasized that ICE officers put their lives on the line to protect American citizens and deserve respect and support. The department reported a staggering 413% increase in assaults against ICE agents, which coincides with the ongoing riots in Los Angeles targeting the agency.
Both Jeffries and Wu came under fire for their comments regarding ICE agents wearing masks for safety reasons. Jeffries insinuated that agents were trying to hide their identities, while Wu drew a comparison between ICE and a neo-Nazi group for wearing masks. These comments were condemned by DHS as irresponsible and dangerous.
Governor Walz also faced backlash for comparing ICE to the Nazis, accusing them of carrying out aggressive tactics akin to a modern-day Gestapo. These comparisons only serve to escalate tensions and incite violence against ICE agents, according to DHS.
In response to the escalating violence and threats against ICE agents, President Donald Trump authorized the deployment of the National Guard in California. Governor Newsom, however, has expressed his opposition to this move, accusing the Trump administration of provoking chaos and violence. Newsom has vowed to take legal action against the deployment of the National Guard.
Despite these tensions, Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles has called on residents to refrain from engaging in violence and chaos. However, her previous comments criticizing ICE tactics have been met with scrutiny.
When reached out for comments, Newsom’s office highlighted his compliance with ICE detainers for individuals already in custody. Wu, Bass, Walz, and Jeffries did not respond to requests for comment.
The ongoing conflict between Democratic leaders and DHS underscores the need for a more restrained and respectful dialogue regarding immigration enforcement. ICE agents deserve to carry out their duties without fear of violence or harassment, and inflammatory rhetoric only serves to exacerbate an already volatile situation.
