URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking development, top Democratic leaders, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have refused to support escalating demands from within their party to defund the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This decision comes just days after the tragic shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis, igniting fierce criticism and calls for accountability.
As Congress approaches a critical January 30 deadline to approve government spending packages, progressive lawmakers are urging their colleagues to leverage this moment to rein in ICE, which has been embroiled in controversy over its aggressive tactics. “We cannot turn a blind eye to the violence,” said Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.), emphasizing the necessity for change. Many believe this is the “appropriate time” to act, with public disapproval of ICE reaching an all-time high.
During a press briefing, Jeffries acknowledged the gravity of the situation but pointed towards other appropriations bills, stating, “We’ll figure out the accountability mechanisms at the appropriate time.” Critics are questioning whether his leadership reflects the urgency of the crisis, as ICE’s budget is projected to skyrocket to $170 billion following last year’s legislation.
Both Schumer and Jeffries have condemned the actions of ICE in the wake of Good’s death, which is part of a disturbing trend—ICE agents have shot 11 civilians in vehicles over the past four months. Yet, when pressed on whether they would support cutting ICE funding, Schumer only stated he has “lots of problems with ICE,” without committing to any actionable steps.
Progressive representatives, including Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), are adamant that the Democratic Party must pursue funding cuts for ICE, even at the risk of triggering another government shutdown. “We can’t just keep authorizing money for these illegal killers,” Jayapal asserted, underscoring the urgency for Democratic leaders to take a stand.
The discontent within the party is palpable, as many activists and lawmakers are calling for a reevaluation of leadership. Historian Moshik Temkin highlighted that ICE’s controversial funding has been normalized across multiple administrations, urging Democrats to recognize their complicity in its growth.
As the deadline looms, the pressure on Democratic leaders mounts. The situation remains fluid, and the next few weeks will be pivotal in determining how the party addresses ICE’s future and its funding. With public sentiment shifting against ICE, the Democrats face a critical choice: will they act decisively to rein in the agency or continue to allow it to operate unchecked?
Stay tuned for updates as this urgent story develops.
