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Mike Shulman's avatar

The calls for ICE to be abolished are growing. I feel like we’re heading back to Defund the Police v. 2.0. God, I hate losing elections because of unforced errors.

What we need are legislative safeguards to prevent ICE weaponization again, not elimination of an agency tasked in large part to prevent another 9/11.

As I saw in Jim Welby’s Substack recently, Thomas Friedman says we need a “high border wall with a big gate.” Immigrants are critical to our success. Arguably we’re not letting in nearly enough during the current administration. But those we do let in should be vetted.

Terry White's avatar

I listened to the Friedman interview as well. It was good. He is from Willmar, MN.

Laura murray's avatar

The Democratic Party allowed millions of unvetted Immigrants into our country, along with cartels, drugs, and human trafficking.

BIllions of dollars spent on welfare benefits. I believe MPls sanctuary policies are the root cause of the current crisis, because they prevent cooperation and communication between law enforcement groups. Resistance to ICE tactics is damaging our city, and our elected democratic officials all cry “ICE out”, while ignoring the reality that immigration law would no longer be enforced…which is a federal responsibility. Some people do not differentiate between legal and illegal immigration. BOth republican and democratic Lawmakers need to get busy and agree on how to manage this problem so we can move forward. I am an independent with little confidence in current democratic leadership, and also have issues with some republicans, which leaves me disgusted, angry and fearful for the future of Mpls.

Terry White's avatar

Hi Laura,

I agree that if immigration is going to become less volatile, it will require clear legislation and a coherent policy framework. Given that Republicans currently control the House, Senate, and the presidency, it does raise questions about why a comprehensive policy has not yet been enacted. From the outside, it is difficult to tell whether the delay reflects internal disagreement, competing priorities, or a reluctance to move away from the current approach.

I also think it’s important to distinguish between legally enforcing immigration law and the tactics currently being used by ICE in some cities. Many people view these actions as crossing legal and civil rights boundaries, which understandably fuels public concern and backlash. While the actions of some local officials may contribute to heightened tensions, much of what we are seeing appears to be a reaction to enforcement strategies that many residents find alarming.

Thanks for sharing your perspective. I appreciate the thoughtful exchange.

Best,

Terry

Laura murray's avatar

Agree, and nicely stated. Disheartening that I'm seeing politicians hurling verbal firebrands and lawsuits instead of sitting down together and addressing immigration law issues. Meanwhile, our police are overwhelmed, business suffers, workers do not get paid, and agitators make it all worse. I'm hoping Homan can be a voice of reason, improve communications and bring a calming approach.

Paul Thoresen's avatar

Each day I feel more and more politically homeless

Linda Gowan's avatar

Somehow I do not think the Republicans have lost any ground on this push to remove illegal immigrants but may actually have gained ground. The survey should have asked what people thought of our local government's handling of the ICE surge. Many believe that much of the recent discourse is on our response and a possible misinterpretation of the laws regarding immigration.