Healey Urges Governor Ayotte to Oppose New ICE Detention Center in NH
New Hampshire Governor Maura Healey has called on her counterpart, Governor Kelly Ayotte, to reject federal plans for a new Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in Merrimack, New Hampshire. In a recent statement, Healey expressed her strong disapproval of the initiative, which has been revealed through documents from the New Hampshire ACLU.
Healey’s Strong Opposition to New ICE Detention Center
Healey described ICE’s proposal as “outrageous” and a detrimental move for both New Hampshire and the surrounding region. She emphasized that the community should not tolerate ICE’s expansion, especially given concerns about safety and due process. Healey stated, “We should be opposing ICE’s tactics, not allowing them to expand.”
The proposed site, a 43-acre warehouse located at 50 Robert Milligan Parkway, aims to transform into a 400-bed facility. This plan is part of a broader initiative by ICE to establish several large-scale detention centers across the United States.
Concerns Over Communication and Transparency
Ayotte’s office has voiced frustrations regarding the lack of communication from the federal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) concerning the proposed facility. A spokesperson remarked that the state government would continue to demand transparency from federal agencies. There have been criticisms that a state agency failed to properly inform Ayotte’s office about prior communications with ICE.
- Location: 50 Robert Milligan Parkway, Merrimack, NH
- Facility Size: 43 acres
- Planned Capacity: 400 beds
Impact on Communities
Healey continued her critique of ICE, citing violent incidents linked to their operations in various states. She mentioned, “ICE is shooting people dead on the street…this does not make people safer.” Healey warned that the construction of a new detention center would exacerbate fears in the community and negatively impact the lives of residents across New England.
The documents obtained by the ACLU also included a DHS letter listing proposed improvements for the site. These improvements may encompass updates to parking, fencing, lighting, and security measures.
Political Landscape and Reactions
New Hampshire Democrats have opposed the detention center from the moment the proposal appeared in reports. Healey also pointed out that Ayotte has been the only New England governor supporting ICE, having enacted a law banning sanctuary city policies earlier this year.
With the future of the facility uncertain, both Healey and Ayotte are in heightened discussions about how this issue will unfold in the coming weeks.
