Colbert Questions Safety of ICE Agents in Florida

On Thursday, Stephen Colbert, host of “The Late Show,” discussed Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law in a conversation with U.S. Senator Maxwell Frost. He raised concerns about the safety of masked immigrants and customs enforcement (ICE) agents who might be captured on film while performing their duties.

Colbert pointed out the issues surrounding unmarked, windowless vans showing up, where individuals in masks appear to forcibly take people. He highlighted the dangerous implications of open carry laws in Florida, suggesting these conditions endanger both officers and the community. “Why would you put yourself in that position?” he asked rhetorically.

ICE officials have voiced their discomfort, urging politicians to “stop putting my people at risk.” Colbert’s claims came into question, as open carry isn’t generally legal in Florida—though it does have specific exemptions for activities like hunting. Governor Ron DeSantis, however, has advocated for more open carry rights since February 2025.

Earlier, Colbert asked Frost to elaborate on a remark he made about the last deportation effort under the Trump administration, calling it “taxpayer-funded trickery.” Florida lawmakers contended that the massive deportations prophesied during Trump’s 2024 campaign wouldn’t qualify as actual deportations due to the lack of proper legal procedures.

Frost emphasized that many in the community feel attacked, as agents jump out of unmarked vans, often without any legal recourse. He questioned why these agents hide behind masks if they truly believe in the legality of their actions. “If you’re proud of what you do, why the mask?” he asked, noting that operating in secrecy raises significant issues with public trust.

In recent weeks, the rhetoric surrounding ICE has intensified, with figures such as Boston Mayor Michelle Wu drawing parallels between masked agents and extremist groups during press conferences.