Democrats convened in Austin, Texas, to discuss the future of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The meeting highlighted divisions within the party regarding whether to reform or abolish the agency, amid criticism of President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) approved two messages: one advocating for ‘concrete reforms’ and another for abolishing ICE. These actions reflect the party’s differing views. This decision is symbolic and will not set the party’s official platform until the 2028 convention.
Since 2018, ICE has faced scrutiny and has become a focal point for progressive Democrats. Recent incidents, including two deadly shootings by ICE in July, have reignited calls for change.
Michele Johnson from Louisiana supported the call to dismantle ICE. She cited the dissolution of ICE’s predecessor, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, as an example. ‘The party needs to take a definitive stance,’ she asserted, criticizing the party’s cautious approach to controversial issues.
Not all DNC members agreed. Yvonne Reeves-Chong opposed the abolition, suggesting it would only appeal to a segment of the Democratic base and could alienate other voters. ‘Focusing on winning elections is key to implementing effective policies,’ she stated.
DNC Chairman Ken Martin, from Minnesota, acknowledged the internal differences. ‘Despite varied opinions, Democrats agree that current practices by ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are unacceptable,’ he emphasized, calling for a new approach.
A recent poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicated immigration as a critical issue for Trump, more so than the economy or Iran. The survey found only 39% approval of Trump’s handling of immigration, a drop from 49% earlier in his term.
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