ICE director demands ‘immediate apology’ from Tim Walz for Gestapo comment
Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons is demanding an apology from former Democratic vice-presidential candidate Tim Walz after he referred to ICE agents as “[President] Donald Trump’s modern-day Gestapo.” Lyons emphasized that Walz’s comments not only disparage the hard-working ICE officers but also put their safety at risk.
During his commencement speech at the University of Minnesota law school, Walz compared the Trump administration’s deportation efforts to the Nazi secret police force of the 1930s and 1940s, describing them as “Donald Trump’s modern-day Gestapo.” This comparison drew strong condemnation from Lyons, who highlighted that Walz’s remarks were particularly insensitive given that National Police Week was being observed at the time.
Lyons pointed out that assaults against ICE officers have risen significantly, with a 400% increase from the previous year. He attributed part of this rise to politicians like Walz who use politically motivated rhetoric that can incite violence against law enforcement officials. He urged Walz to issue an immediate apology to the ICE agents who work tirelessly to protect communities.
White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller also criticized Walz’s statement, calling it “vile anti-American language” that could incite insurrection and violence. Miller emphasized the importance of respecting law enforcement officers and refraining from inflammatory language that could lead to dangerous consequences.
In conclusion, it is essential for public figures like Tim Walz to be mindful of their language and avoid making derogatory remarks that could endanger the lives of law enforcement officers. The safety and well-being of ICE agents should be a top priority, and inflammatory rhetoric only serves to undermine their crucial work in upholding the law and protecting communities.
