Here’s what happened.
A political battle over immigration enforcement is intensifying in Washington, as Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons firmly rejects calls from Democratic lawmakers demanding he step down.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Lyons defended both his leadership and the work of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers following a surge in enforcement operations in Minneapolis.
Several Democrats, including California Rep. Eric Swalwell, have publicly urged Lyons to resign after a recent enforcement action resulted in the agent-involved shooting deaths of two individuals described by authorities as agitators during confrontations with federal officers.
Swalwell, who is currently running for governor of California, made his comments during a congressional hearing this week.
Lyons Defends ICE Mission and Rule of Law
Lyons made clear he does not intend to resign.
“Leading this agency is a choice,” Lyons said. “And it’s one I make to stand side-by-side with the brave men and women who enforce this nation’s immigration laws.”
He emphasized that ICE officers operate under constitutional authority and are tasked with protecting American communities.
“I’m incredibly proud of the dedication they show each day in protecting our nation, our neighborhoods, and our families,” Lyons said. “Just like the men and women I serve alongside, I swore an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
Lyons also pushed back on what he described as mischaracterizations of ICE’s mission.
“If lawmakers present a version of events that does not reflect the facts and then demand resignations, that misleads their constituents and undermines confidence in lawful enforcement,” he said.
He concluded clearly: “I will not resign, because I believe in the rule of law and will continue to uphold my oath.”
Democrats Increase Pressure on DHS and ICE
Swalwell is not alone in his criticism.
Rep. Daniel Goldman of New York questioned ICE’s enforcement posture during the same hearing, while Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota criticized what she described as aggressive tactics in Minneapolis.
Rep. Pramila Jayapal of Washington reportedly led more than 150 lawmakers in formally requesting leadership changes at ICE. Senators Martin Heinrich of New Mexico and Peter Welch of Vermont have also called for accountability within ICE and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The debate reflects a broader disagreement over immigration policy, border enforcement, and federal authority.
Heated Exchange During Congressional Hearing
One of the most dramatic moments of the hearing involved Rep. LaMonica McIver of New Jersey, who pressed Lyons with a personal question about his beliefs.
Lyons declined to engage with the line of questioning, and Chairman Andrew Garbarino of New York stepped in to caution that decorum should be maintained during the hearing.
The exchange highlighted the intensity of the political divide surrounding immigration enforcement.
A National Debate Over Immigration and Public Safety
For many Americans — particularly voters concerned about border security, crime, and the rule of law — the issue goes beyond Washington politics.
Supporters of strong immigration enforcement argue that ICE officers are carrying out laws enacted by Congress and that federal agencies must be allowed to perform their duties without political interference.
Critics argue that reforms are needed and that enforcement strategies should be reassessed.
As this debate continues, Lyons has signaled he intends to remain in his position and continue leading ICE under current immigration policy directives.
With immigration expected to remain a central issue heading into future elections, the conversation over federal enforcement authority and accountability is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
