Spanberger faces backlash from DHS, opponent over criticism of Virginia ICE raid
Virginia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger is facing criticism and pushback from her opponent and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after condemning an ICE raid at a Virginia courthouse that resulted in the arrest of two criminal illegal immigrants. Spanberger, a former congresswoman and intelligence officer, expressed concern over the lack of proper identification and credentials displayed during the raid, which she described as “shocking.”
The DHS revealed that the two illegal immigrants arrested during the raid had criminal records. Teodoro Dominguez-Rodriguez, a Honduran national, was identified as a “violent illegal alien” with multiple arrests for assault and battery, while Pablo Aparicio Marcelino, a Mexican national, had been arrested for various offenses including failing to stop at the scene of an accident and driving under the influence.
Spanberger’s opponent in the gubernatorial race, Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, criticized her response to the ICE raid, accusing her of prioritizing criminals over victims. The lieutenant governor’s press secretary emphasized Spanberger’s previous vote in favor of keeping criminal migrants in the country, suggesting that her stance on immigration enforcement is misguided.
A spokesperson for Spanberger clarified that she supports the arrest of criminal illegal immigrants but raised concerns about the conduct of ICE agents during the raid. The spokesperson highlighted Spanberger’s experience as a federal law enforcement officer and emphasized the importance of proper identification and transparency during arrests.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin from the DHS defended the use of raids at courthouses, stating that it is a common-sense approach to removing criminal illegal aliens from communities. McLaughlin refuted Spanberger’s claims of improper identification by ICE agents and emphasized the safety measures taken to protect officers from potential threats.
The upcoming gubernatorial election in Virginia has immigration as a key issue, with Spanberger and Earle-Sears differing on their approaches to border security and enforcement. The lieutenant governor’s campaign has focused on criticizing Spanberger’s past opposition to a border wall, while Spanberger’s team has highlighted her bipartisan efforts to combat drug trafficking and secure the border.
As the race heats up, both candidates are expected to continue to debate their positions on immigration and law enforcement policies. The outcome of the election will determine the next governor of Virginia and shape the state’s approach to immigration enforcement and public safety.
