Trump’s ICE is under a shocking new attack.
A new proposal introduced in Congress is reigniting the national debate over immigration enforcement, with progressive Democrats pushing legislation that would dismantle U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The measure has drawn immediate pushback from the Trump administration, which argues the proposal would undermine public safety and border security.
DHS Defends Immigration Enforcement
Responding to the legislation, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that immigration enforcement remains a core responsibility of the federal government.
“DHS is a law enforcement agency, and it will continue enforcing immigration laws to protect Americans from criminals, including violent offenders, drug traffickers, and gang members,” McLaughlin said.
She added that immigration enforcement was a central issue in President Donald Trump’s campaign and that voters supported a tougher approach at the ballot box.
“President Trump ran on immigration enforcement. The American people voted for it, and Secretary Noem is delivering,” she said.
Democrats Introduce ‘Abolish ICE’ Bill
The legislation was introduced this week by Democratic Rep. Shri Thanedar of Michigan. Officially titled the Abolish ICE Act (H.R. 7123), the bill was formally filed Thursday in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The proposal calls for ending federal funding for ICE, reclaiming unobligated funds, and dissolving the agency within 90 days if enacted. The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, the Homeland Security Committee, and the Ways and Means Committee.
ICE was created in 2003 following the September 11 terrorist attacks, as part of a broader federal reorganization aimed at strengthening national security and immigration enforcement.
Recent Incidents Drive Renewed Scrutiny
Supporters of the bill point to several recent enforcement incidents involving ICE agents, including a fatal shooting in Minneapolis in January 2026 that sparked protests at the Minnesota State Capitol.
Another recent encounter involving an ICE agent and a Venezuelan national has further fueled criticism from local officials and progressive activists.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said the current situation involving federal immigration enforcement in the city is “not sustainable,” adding that local communities are feeling the strain.
Polling Shows a Divided Nation
Public opinion remains sharply divided. A recent Economist/YouGov poll conducted January 9–12, 2026, found that 46 percent of Americans support abolishing ICE, while 43 percent oppose the idea. The survey included 1,602 adults and had a margin of error of plus or minus 3.3 percentage points.
Other polling suggests the issue has become increasingly partisan, with support for abolishing ICE rising primarily among Democratic voters since late 2024.
Trump Administration Pushes Back
The Trump administration has forcefully rejected the proposal, warning that abolishing ICE would weaken law enforcement and embolden criminal networks.
McLaughlin said ICE officers are experiencing a dramatic increase in assaults, which she attributed in part to political rhetoric targeting the agency.
She also highlighted the administration’s emphasis on voluntary compliance, noting that illegal immigrants are encouraged to self-deport using the CBP Home app, which offers travel and financial assistance.
“For those in the country illegally, the safest and most efficient option is to leave voluntarily,” McLaughlin said.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem echoed that message Thursday, stating that immigration enforcement actions remain targeted and focused on individuals who pose public safety risks.
Democrats Escalate Criticism
Thanedar has argued that ICE prioritizes enforcement over due process and claims the agency is beyond reform. Other Democrats echoed those concerns.
Rep. Ilhan Omar criticized federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis, while Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz urged protesters to remain peaceful, blaming political tensions for unrest.
Bill Faces Long Odds in Congress
Despite the attention, the Abolish ICE Act faces a steep uphill battle. Republicans control both chambers of Congress, and President Trump has made clear he strongly supports ICE and immigration enforcement.
For the bill to become law, it would need to pass both the House and Senate and be signed by President Trump—an outcome widely viewed as unlikely.
Still, the proposal underscores the deep divide over immigration, federal authority, and public safety—issues expected to play a major role in the 2026 midterm elections.
