Swalwell Proposes Ban on Hiring ICE Agents in California

Rep. Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, recently stated that he aims to prevent the state from hiring ICE agents if he wins the gubernatorial election in November. During a discussion, he emphasized that under his leadership, California would adopt a policy against hiring such agents.

Swalwell mentioned, “It’s pretty typical for law enforcement personnel to transition between departments. As governor, I plan to utilize my emergency powers to instruct all state agencies that they won’t be hiring ICE agents.” He added that no one is obliged to work for ICE, implying a shift in priorities for California law enforcement.

He asserted, “Even if I take on the role of governor, if someone is currently employed by ICE and hasn’t picked up on the fact that this isn’t a desired position, they won’t be part of the state workforce.”

In light of pressing issues in California, lawmakers have expressed the need to focus on their responsibilities as protectors of the state’s residents. Notably, ICE did not respond to inquiries from media representatives.

Earlier this month, Swalwell shared his intention to revoke driver’s licenses for federal immigration agents who do not reveal their identities while on duty. He stated, “If the president wants to send ICE agents to find immigrants, I’ll require them to remove their masks, show their faces, and present their IDs. If they engage in illegal activity, they’ll face consequences.” He underlined that a lack of identification could result in losing driving privileges in California.

Swalwell declared his gubernatorial candidacy during a November appearance on the Jimmy Kimmel show, pledging to advocate and defend Californians if elected.