House Democrat Advocates for Abolishing Both ICE and DHS
Amid increasing scrutiny over federal enforcement practices, U.S. Representative Delia C. Ramirez is advocating for the abolition of both Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Representing parts of Chicago, Ramirez emphasizes that the structure and mission of DHS have systematically oppressed marginalized communities since its inception in 2002.
Calls for Dismantling DHS and ICE
In a recent social media statement, Ramirez highlighted the troubling histories of federal officers involved in violent incidents. She referenced the cases of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, both of whom were killed by DHS officers.
- The officer responsible for Good’s death, Jonathan Ross, has been with DHS since 2007.
- The officer involved in Pretti’s death had served in the Border Patrol for eight years.
“The issue isn’t training; DHS was constructed to violate rights,” she asserted, directly challenging the narrative that violence is merely a training failure.
Legislative Actions and Perspectives
Ramirez, alongside fellow Democrat Yvette Clarke from New York, has presented the Melt ICE Act. This legislation aims to restrict DHS’s ability to detain immigrants. Their approach sharply contrasts with leading Democrats who advocate for reforms within ICE rather than its abolishment. For example:
- Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer supports a reform-oriented message.
- House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has called for enhanced training and body camera mandates for ICE agents.
The Root of the Issue
During a recent Homeland Security Committee hearing, Ramirez reiterated that DHS is not merely acting rogue. She argued that the agency’s current violence stems from its foundational mandate, warning that it has been afforded unchecked power for years. “From its establishment, Congress has empowered DHS to violate our rights under the guise of security,” she stated.
Historical Context and Growing Support
The idea of abolishing ICE has gained traction, particularly as the agency has grown to become the largest law enforcement entity in the U.S. under the Trump administration. Historically, DHS was created post-9/11, promoted by President George W. Bush, in a climate of fear regarding “invisible enemies.”
Critics point out that this has resulted in severe consequences for immigrants, leading to abusive conditions in detention centers and the separation of families.
There is a rising consensus among left-wing advocates that the existence of DHS, alongside its problematic roots, makes a strong case for its abolition. Ramirez’s calls for dismantling both ICE and DHS represent a significant shift in political discourse, one increasingly popular among proponents of social justice and reform.
