Hawley Calls for Investigation into Anti-ICE Protests
Senator Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) voiced his concerns on Tuesday regarding what he described as anti-ICE activists that are emerging across the nation. He suggested that these groups could be part of a larger, coordinated effort and has requested a Justice Department probe to investigate these allegations.
In a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, which was seen by Fox News Digital, Hawley pointed out evidence indicating these agitators are being “heavily funded and professionally organized by wealthy left-wing organizations.” He noted that recent reports suggest that the protests appear to be not spontaneous, but part of a larger, coordinated effort.
“The scale, geographic synchronicity, uniformity of messaging, and logistical sophistication of these operations strongly suggest intensive planning and financing that is inconsistent with legitimate domestic advocacy,” Hawley wrote. This raises questions about the true nature of these gatherings.
He expressed concern that, if foreign entities are involved in these funding streams, it could breach “federal prohibitions against foreign influence,” suggesting that such financing could also be seen as “extortion.”
“Given the public safety and national security implications, it’s crucial for the Department of Justice to take immediate notice. As the Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Crime Subcommittee and Homeland Security Disaster Management Subcommittee, I urge the Department to begin a full investigation into these funding networks,” he added.
The Justice Department has yet to respond to requests for comments on this matter.
Hawley’s letter comes amid reports of riots led by anti-ICE protesters in cities like Minneapolis, Portland, and parts of California. During a recent announcement, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche mentioned the existence of a “massive underground fraud network” in Minneapolis, suggesting it may have incentivized a sudden and organized move against ICE.
“There was significant fraud occurring all over Minneapolis, and then we saw a shift in focus toward ICE, overshadowing previous concerns,” Blanche remarked. He elaborated that when authorities sought to intervene, there was considerable backlash.
Blanche also indicated that investigators are making headway in tracking the financial aspects tied to the alleged network. While he refrained from naming individuals or sources, he emphasized the importance of following the money trail as federal law enforcement progresses with their investigation.
