Markwayne Mullin Criticizes Democrats’ Border Policies
In response to President Donald Trump’s signing of a $70 billion funding bill for ICE and CBP that extends through 2029, DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin has criticized Democrats for their efforts to reduce border protection funding. He pointed out problems related to sanctuary cities and the rising number of illegal immigrants being arrested for serious felonies. Mullin underscored the zero-tolerance stance of the Trump administration towards individuals who harbor criminals and assault law enforcement officers.
On another front, conservatives are reacting strongly after Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., proposed a bill that would redirect over $100 billion previously designated for immigration enforcement. Her “Make ICE Pay Act” aims to reallocate funding towards communities that have suffered from the actions of the Department of Homeland Security, particularly in relation to operations like “Operation Metro Surge” in Minnesota. Omar explained that almost $140 billion from ICE and Border Patrol resources would support local recovery initiatives stemming from immigration enforcement throughout the nation.
According to Omar, this funding would help local governments provide financial relief and distribute resources to nonprofits, small businesses, and other affected organizations to bolster schools, healthcare, psychological services, and cover increased local government expenses. The program is intended to be managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development with oversight from its inspector general, and it would conclude three years after its inception.
She expressed her conviction on social media, stating, “ICE has been tearing through our nation, devastating our neighborhoods, our cities, and our businesses. Our communities deserve accountability. My Make ICE Pay Act will redirect ICE’s $140 billion budget to the communities they’ve hurt the most.”
However, the bill’s prospects seem dim as long as Republicans hold power in Congress and the White House. It has been met with swift backlash from conservatives, who view it as indicative of a philosophy that prioritizes the protection of illegal immigrants over stringent immigration law enforcement.
Sen. Jim Banks, R-Ind., labeled the bill as “un-American,” asserting that it diverts funds from law enforcement to communities that protect criminal illegal aliens. He remarked, “Democrats fight for everyone except the American people.”
Additionally, a conservative social media account dismissed the bill as reflective of an “America last” attitude. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders raised concerns about the implications of defunding ICE and weakening border security, arguing that it contradicts the goal of safeguarding communities.
In the backdrop, Republican John Nagel, who is challenging Omar for the 5th Congressional District seat in Minnesota, criticized her intentions, claiming she aims to undermine the U.S. and has anti-police sentiments.
Fox News Digital sought out comments from Omar’s office but did not receive a response. Additionally, White House border czar Tom Homan confirmed that the Department of Homeland Security is investigating allegations against Omar but provided no further details about what he termed an “ongoing criminal investigation.” He refrained from elaborating when questioned about whether there was evidence of immigration or naturalization fraud linked to Omar.
Omar has faced persistent allegations regarding her marriage to a man whom critics say may be her brother as part of an immigration scheme. She has consistently denied these claims, branding them as “bigoted lies,” and noted that Trump has an obsession with her.
