Calls for Abolishing ICE Intensify
On Monday, Rep. Ilhan Omar from Minnesota expressed her opinion on social media, stating that ICE, or Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is beyond reform and should be dismantled entirely. In her post, she emphasized her belief that the agency is no longer viable.
This stance comes in light of recent news involving a suspect, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who is allegedly linked to the MS-13 gang. Garcia was taken into custody by ICE on August 25. Omar’s criticism aligns her with other members of her political group who are vocal against ICE, though some of her colleagues have taken a more moderated approach.
Omar believes that ICE, created in 2003 during the era of the Patriot Act, is fundamentally flawed and should not exist. This sentiment isn’t new; it has been echoed by figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has previously called for a complete overhaul of the agency. In a campaign email, she stated that ICE operates in a way that is authoritarian and undemocratic, promoting an agenda contrary to fundamental American values.
Ocasio-Cortez argued for replacing ICE with a new structure resembling an updated Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), emphasizing the need for a system that aligns with long-standing judicial practices. She pointed out the harsh realities of current policies, stating that immigrants—especially women and children—often face dire circumstances under existing regulations.
In another post, she reacted strongly to ICE’s social media presence, stating flatly that the agency should and will be abolished. This has become a rallying cry for many advocates who argue that ICE’s existence inflicts trauma on vulnerable populations.
Meanwhile, Rep. Pramila Jayapal from Washington State has also contributed to the conversation, previously introducing legislation in 2018 aimed at terminating ICE. She acknowledged that while ICE would eventually be dismantled, enforcement of immigration laws would still be necessary. Jayapal’s comments indicate a push for an entirely new structure to handle immigration effectively.
Omar’s opinions, especially considering her background as a Somali refugee, have sparked discussions on the broader implications of national immigration policies. Some see her perspectives as indicative of a desire for a borderless concept of America, believing instead in an inclusive nation that welcomes all.
This ongoing debate reflects a complex landscape of views on immigration enforcement, raising questions about the future function of ICE and how the U.S. manages immigration.
