Border Tensions Escalate Over Mask Policy for ICE Agents

In a heated discussion on Sunday, Tom Homan, a key figure in border enforcement, confronted Politico’s Dasha Burns regarding the policy that allows immigrants to wear masks during enforcement operations—something that has drew mixed reactions. The recent legislative proposal from New Jersey’s Corey Booker and California’s Alex Padilla, introduced on July 8, aims to limit mask use for ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents during their operations.

Many were reportedly “up in arms” about this situation. Homan noted the alarming increase in violence against ICE agents, stating that there has been a staggering 700% rise in attacks and doxing incidents directed at these law enforcement personnel.

In response, Burns highlighted the rise in assaults against police officers following movements to defund police departments, implying a correlation. Homan challenged her statement, asking her to name any police agency that had experienced such a spike. She admitted she wasn’t aware of any specific data.

Homan expressed concern about the unprecedented attacks faced by law enforcement, including ICE agents. He pointed out that even his family experiences the repercussions of his role in the Department of Homeland Security. According to reports from June, ICE agents now face a significant increase in assaults.

He defended the use of masks for ICE agents as a safety measure, questioning why the same people who criticize them for wearing masks haven’t said anything about protesters who wear masks during demonstrations. He brought up instances where masked individuals have engaged in unlawful activities, suggesting a double standard in public opinion.

Burns attempted to interject, but Homan pressed on, asking if there were any laws preventing masked protesters from participating in criminal acts.

Homan insisted that he would continue wearing a mask while discharging his duties, emphasizing that agents wear identification insignias. With attacks reaching unprecedented levels, he stressed the need for some form of protection.

“I used to be an ICE agent myself,” he said. “These men and women, they are parents too. They’re not monsters. They’re here to enforce the law and ensure safety.” Homan expressed frustration over the vilification of ICE agents amid rising tensions.

Meanwhile, the Department of Justice has made several arrests related to a recent armed attack on an ICE facility in Texas, during which a local police officer was shot. Law enforcement officials reported a separate incident on July 7, where a gunman was shot dead after opening fire on a border patrol agent, highlighting the growing dangers facing those in law enforcement.