Pramila Jayapal Defends ICE Amid Controversy

Democrat Pramila Jayapal expressed support for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, who she previously labeled as “terrorist forces.” During a CNN segment on Wednesday, she called on the White House to apologize for ICE’s actions.

Her comments followed a closed-door discussion in Spokane, as reported by local sources. In the segment, CNN co-host Brianna Keilar pressed Jayapal on her statements. A White House spokesperson later noted a significant rise in assaults on ICE agents.

“It’s confusing and outrageous. I mean, these are supposed to be ICE agents, but they’re just in regular clothes,” Jayapal stated, expressing disbelief at the situation in America.

She further added, “The administration needs to apologize to legal permanent residents and those who have lived here crime-free for decades, only to be targeted by masked individuals who have forcibly removed them.” Jayapal felt this conduct was not only illegal but also instilled fear among communities, affecting small businesses and farmers.

President Trump has taken executive action to tackle illegal immigration and border security, including classifying certain gangs and cartels as foreign terrorist organizations since taking office.

Protests erupted in various cities following ICE operations, starting in Los Angeles and spreading elsewhere. Reports indicated that in Seattle, some demonstrators set trash cans ablaze and attempted to desecrate an American flag.

Jayapal shared insights from her Spokane meeting, mentioning concerns voiced by farmers and restaurant owners about declining sales due to fears of ICE activities. “People are genuinely terrified, Brianna. This isn’t what I expected to see in the United States. The administration owes the American public an apology,” she emphasized.

The Department of Homeland Security has not yet responded to requests for commentary on the matter.