A group of Democratic lawmakers in the United States Congress is pushing for the dismantling of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, advocating for the creation of a new agency under the Department of Justice.
According to reports from EFE, progressive Democrat Congressman Ro Khanna from California is spearheading this effort. He has stated that his party will oppose funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) due to concerns that "ICE's budget is set to essentially triple."
Khanna has criticized the new budget plan, which proposes an additional $18 billion annually over four years to the agency's usual resources, which already amount to approximately $10 billion per year.
"We must act to slash ICE's funds. Frankly, we need to dismantle ICE and establish a new federal agency within the Department of Justice. It's unacceptable for any Democrat to support this bloated budget," Khanna declared.
The congressman argued that Democratic opposition is mounting against the expansion and empowerment of ICE, which now employs about 22,000 agents following the hiring of an additional 12,000 personnel—a 120% increase.
This expansion is a result of a law signed last year by former President Donald Trump, which made ICE the largest security agency in the country, with an estimated budget of $75 billion, surpassing the military budgets of many nations.
"I want to ensure that all Democrats stand against this. We cannot fund an agency that detains American citizens, perpetrates abuses, and violates the human rights of immigrants," Khanna emphasized.
Political pressure against ICE has intensified following the death of Renee Good, a 37-year-old American citizen, who was shot by an agent during a raid in Minneapolis on January 7.
This incident sparked nationwide protests and reignited the debate over excessive use of force.
A recent poll conducted by YouGov and The Economist indicated that for the first time, a majority of Americans (46% compared to 43%) support abolishing ICE, which was established in 2003 by former President George W. Bush in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks.
Khanna reiterated the need for "a fair, professional agency overseen by the Department of Justice, not an unchecked police force."
He also asserted that if Democrats regain control of Congress after the midterm elections, they will initiate a formal investigation into the deaths of migrants in ICE custody.
The Democratic caucus has launched a digital tool called the "ICE Dashboard," a website designed to document alleged abuses and receive reports from affected citizens and migrants.
"If you witness human rights violations by agents, report them, and we will investigate," Khanna urged.
Additionally, an internal ICE memorandum was revealed this Thursday, authorizing agents to enter private homes without a judicial warrant, according to information released that day.
ICE Reform and Public Sentiment
What is the main goal of the Democrats regarding ICE?
The main goal is to dismantle ICE and create a new agency under the Department of Justice that is fair, professional, and accountable.
Why is there opposition to ICE's budget increase?
Opposition stems from concerns about ICE's growing power, its increased budget, and allegations of human rights violations and abuses.
How has public opinion shifted regarding ICE?
Recent polls show that a majority of Americans now support abolishing ICE, indicating a shift in public sentiment against the agency.