Lawmakers in key districts are responding to calls from officials in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, asking Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to “vacate” their courthouses, questioning the “legitimacy” of federal law enforcement during a press conference on Thursday.
Rep. Ryan McKenzie, a Republican from Pennsylvania, criticized county officials for their efforts to evict ICE from their office space. He pointed out that federal immigration officials have apprehended undocumented immigrants with serious criminal backgrounds, including acts of theft and violence against minors.
However, County Mayor Mark Pinsley, along with newly elected Lehigh County Executive Josh Siegel, expressed a different viewpoint. At a press conference, Pinsley referred to the outstanding rent as “blood money,” calling for ICE to leave the area.
Pinsley’s representatives stated that the county is demanding the Department of Homeland Security pay $115,000 in “unpaid rent” and terminate any ongoing negotiations.
McKenzie emphasized that, rather than focusing on rent disputes, the issue centers around “far-left politics,” noting that the county executive’s rejection of DHS funding suggests a deeper ideological battle. He expressed concern that obstructing federal law enforcement efforts could hinder investigations into serious crimes like human trafficking.
Pinsley’s office accused ICE of not fully adhering to the lease terms, alleging that DHS has occupied the county-owned space for an extended period without proper agreement. He emphasized that the county should not engage with an agency whose actions incite fear.
“We can give them a taste of their own medicine. We’re going to deport ICE,” Pinsley stated, indicating he has instructed county administrators to inform DHS to “pack up” and leave.
Siegel reinforced this stance, stating that ICE’s presence is viewed as a threat to public safety and charge the agency with a 30-day eviction notice. He criticized ICE for its national reputation, arguing that the situation is not merely about finances but also about values and accountability.
In an interesting turn, Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin Hourihan mentioned that despite the eviction, DHS’s involvement is crucial for local investigations into human trafficking. He clarified that the county plans to cover DHS’s rent through funds obtained from drug asset seizures.
Pinsley acknowledged Hourihan’s efforts but maintained that while the collaboration with federal authorities can continue, it shouldn’t take place in county-owned facilities—especially if ICE doesn’t pay for its use.
Fox News Digital sought further comments from Lehigh County officials, the local Republican Party, and the Department of Homeland Security.
