‘Get geared up’ because ‘ICE is coming,’ says leading House GOP member
Prominent House Republican Clay Higgins is urging local law enforcement agencies to prepare to assist with ICE immigration operations as part of the ongoing enforcement actions taking place across the country. Higgins, who represents Southern Louisiana and chairs the House Federal Law Enforcement Oversight Subcommittee, emphasized the need for local law enforcement to be ready to support the Trump administration’s efforts to secure the border and remove illegal immigrants.
During a recent subcommittee hearing, Higgins cautioned local law enforcement to “get your mind right” and undergo training to collaborate with ICE in removing criminal illegal immigrants from their states and communities. He stressed that ICE operations will be continuous and that the subcommittee will play a role in restoring law and order in the country.
Higgins highlighted the issue of sanctuary policies that hinder cooperation between local law enforcement and federal authorities, making it challenging to enforce immigration laws and posing a threat to communities. Several experts testified during the hearing, with Joseph Humire, executive director of the Center for a Secure Free Society, warning that under the Biden administration, 14 million illegal immigrants entered the country. He expressed concern that even a small percentage of these individuals with ties to criminal organizations could create a significant security risk.
Sheriff Bob Gualtieri of Pinellas County, Florida, shared his department’s participation in ICE’s 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to assist with specific immigration actions such as detainment and processing. Despite this voluntary participation, Sheriff Gualtieri called on Congress to pass legislation granting all local jails the authority to hold criminal illegal immigrants for ICE based on immigration detainers. This move would prevent these individuals from being released back into the community to commit further crimes.
The issue of enforcing immigration laws and addressing the threat posed by criminal illegal immigrants remains a top priority for the Trump administration and supporters like Higgins. As the discussion continues in Congress, the focus is on providing President Trump with the necessary tools and resources to combat crime effectively and maintain national security.
Overall, the collaboration between local law enforcement and federal agencies like ICE is crucial in upholding the rule of law and protecting communities from the dangers posed by criminal illegal immigrants. As efforts to address these issues progress, it is essential for all levels of government to work together in ensuring the safety and security of the country.
