Governor Shapiro’s Critique of ICE Operations

On Sunday, Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania criticized President Donald Trump for directing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on what he described as “unconstitutional missions.”

A portion of the dialogue is summarized below:

RADDATZ: Tom Homan, who has recently taken charge in Minnesota, indicated a shift from the previous leadership under Greg Bovino. He mentioned that targeted raids are being conducted on individuals suspected of being in the country illegally or who might have a criminal history.

SHAPIRO: Honestly, the leadership doesn’t matter as much as the fact that, as observed in Minneapolis, these operations compromise constitutional rights. The orders for these missions come directly from the President.

RADDATZ: If ICE agents were to come to Pennsylvania, what actions would you take?

SHAPIRO: I’m fully prepared. The governor’s office is ready for various emergencies, including natural disasters and, hopefully not, frightening events like terrorist incidents. We’re currently gearing up in case the federal government sends agents to our communities against our wishes.

During a recent meeting, one governor inquired about what the President learned from events in Minnesota. The President responded that they only go to places where they are welcomed and appreciated.

We prefer to avoid creating such disturbances in Pennsylvania, so we hope they don’t come. But if they do, we’re ready to handle it.

RADDATZ: A recent poll found that 70 percent of Democrats support the idea of abolishing ICE. Do you share that view?

SHAPIRO: It’s evident that ICE isn’t functioning effectively. Their practices are unconstitutional and need reform. The immediate step is for Congress to implement some restrictions, which I support.

RADDATZ: So, it’s about management rather than outright abolition.

SHAPIRO: I’m trying to avoid getting bogged down in labels. Just to be clear—

RADDATZ: It’s not simply a label; it’s either a matter of complete abolition or improvement.

SHAPIRO: What’s clear to me is that the way they’re currently being directed leads to violations of people’s constitutional rights, and I absolutely can’t support that.