Democrats Challenge Attorney General on Targeting Immigrants
During a recent Congressional hearing, House Democrats confronted Attorney General Pam Bondi regarding the Trump administration’s focus on certain individuals, stating that the “worst of the worst” aren’t undocumented immigrants, but rather native-born Americans. This discussion, led by Tennessee Representative Steve Cohen, unfolded amid heated debates over how the Justice Department has been managing the files related to Jeffrey Epstein.
“We’re relying on our local law enforcement to ensure public safety,” Cohen expressed passionately. “But the real challenge isn’t immigrants. It’s the American-born individuals engaged in criminal activities that endanger our communities.”
Cohen further noted, “You seem to be working against this issue. While it’s crucial to have local law enforcement involved, diverting them to support ICE and deport individuals is misplacing priorities—especially in Memphis, where resources are already stretched thin.”
In response to the claims from the administration, Bondi noted that around 70% of undocumented immigrants targeted by immigration authorities do have criminal records, including serious offenses.
Democrats argue that many undocumented individuals commit no crimes other than entering the country illegally. Bondi emphasized the need for both local and federal agencies to have skilled personnel to tackle crime.
“I’ve encountered some of the most violent offenders who were in the U.S. illegally,” she stated. “We both understand that reality.”
Cohen also raised concerns about the operations of ICE, alleging that individuals like Renee Nicole Good and Alex Preti were excessively treated by federal authorities in Minneapolis for supposed obstruction of law enforcement. “What happened to them resembles the way (Homeland Security Secretary) Krist Noem handled her dog, and that’s absolutely unacceptable,” Cohen criticized. He urged for an investigation into these incidents, particularly focusing on civil rights abuses by any officers involved.
