Todd Lyons, the director of ICE under President Donald Trump, has returned to criticism directed at Democrats for their “outrageous rhetoric” concerning the agency’s agents, who enforce immigration laws. This week, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries both criticized ICE. Wu labeled law enforcement officials as Trump’s “secret police,” while Jeffries suggested he might reveal the identities of these agents.
Jeffries stated at a press conference, “Each person [these ICE agents]—no matter what you need, no matter how long it takes—of course, it will be identified.” He emphasized the need for transparency to hold individuals accountable, especially when lines are crossed in America.
In response, Lyons released a video message urging Wu and Jeffries to cease their attacks on ICE agents. He expressed concern for the safety of his officers, emphasizing their role in protecting communities. He mentioned, “My officers and agents are at risk, allowing others to feel safe at night. It’s easy for politicians to make grand statements, but the reality is that these officers protect the very people threatening their safety. Law enforcement should be grounded in common sense.”
He continued, “I’m not just asking them to stop; I’m insisting they do. This is a message to Mayor Wu, Councillor Jeffries, and anyone stirring up anger regarding ICE—these are real individuals with families impacted by the inflammatory comments being made, and it’s crucial to remember that.”
Additionally, Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz has also criticized ICE, likening it to “Trump’s Modern Gestapo,” a reference to the Nazi regime’s secret police. Following these remarks, ICE announced several arrests in Minnesota, which included serious offenders such as murderers and gang members.
