Senator Calls for Accountability Over ICE Comparison

Senator Bernie Moreno from Ohio is seeking answers from Toledo County commissioners after their contentious comparison of ICE agents to terrorists, which Moreno believes may betray their oath of office.

Commissioner Pete Gerken stated, “Since December 2025, these institutions have gone from being legitimate institutions to terrorist groups.” This remark followed the Lucas County Commission’s decision to reject a grant meant for the Department of Homeland Security.

In a letter to Gerken, Moreno characterized the vote as “incoherent and dangerous,” arguing that Gerken’s comments violate the responsibilities he agreed to as a commissioner.

Moreno expressed, “Your irresponsible statements and decisions are completely inconsistent with the duties you have sworn to uphold under the Constitution.” He also referenced the legal obligation to work with elected officials to ensure they have the necessary funds to perform their duties effectively. As per Ohio law, neglecting these duties constitutes misconduct in office.

He pointed out that Toledo Public Schools is grappling with a $70 million budget deficit, while the Lucas County Sheriff is seeking a $6.57 million increase to address staffing needs. Moreno found the refusal of federal aid in light of these challenges “particularly disconcerting” for the community.

Moreno, who assumed office in the U.S. Senate in 2024, accused Gerken of standing firm in his remarks rather than offering an apology. Gerken has publicly stated that the county should not accept funds from “an organization that has outlawed itself.”

In his correspondence, Moreno noted that labeling federal law enforcement as “terrorists” could incite violence, referring to the increase in attacks against ICE and Border Patrol agents, as well as a rise in assaults on federal employees nationwide.

He admonished, “Your abhorrent declaration and decision to defund critical criminal justice and safety infrastructure in Lucas County is not only embarrassing, but will likely lead to further violence against law enforcement officers.”

Moreno also accused Gerken of hypocrisy, recalling that Gerken had urged former President Trump to show respect to local communities while now disparaging the very federal employees who are committed to enforcing the law and safeguarding them.

The senator is demanding responses to several questions within the next five days, including inquiries about the ratio of federal funding in Lucas County’s budget, whether the characterization of federal law enforcement as “terrorists” is aligned with Gerken’s responsibilities, and how county residents could benefit from rejecting federal aid.

Fox News Digital has sought comments from Gerken regarding these issues.

This week, the Department of Homeland Security reported a staggering 1,300% increase in assaults against its employees and an 8,000% rise in death threats, coinciding with ongoing criticisms aimed at ICE agents following the tragic death of Renee Good in Minneapolis.