PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Maine's prominent Senate race has taken a turn as key Democratic and Republican officials respond differently to the increased presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in the state.
Democratic Governor Janet Mills has urged ICE to reveal judicial warrants and provide information on detention practices, responding to widespread concern among immigrants and advocates. Mills asserts, Maine will not be intimidated, and ICE’s reckless actions will not be tolerated here. Meanwhile, she has called for Senator Susan Collins, her Republican opponent, to challenge the recent cuts to ICE funding proposed by Democrats.
Collins refrained from criticizing ICE outright, stating it's crucial to focus on those illegally in the country while encouraging peaceful protests to remain non-interfering with ICE operations. She advocates for improved practices such as transparency with body cameras for ICE agents.
As protests against ICE ramp up in cities like Portland, community anxiety grows. Immigrant leaders claim that recent ICE operations have led families to avoid work and keep children home from school for fear of detentions.
Meanwhile, calls for more protests have emerged, with organizers rallying for further demonstrations, urging community solidarity against aggressive immigration enforcement. A protestor expressed concern, stating, It’s terrifying to see our community being ripped apart. We stand together to support each other during these uncertain times.
In a chilling incident, an immigrant reported being threatened by an ICE agent outside his home, despite being legally in the country. The escalation of ICE actions has raised significant concern among immigrant communities, urging for accountability and justice.
The rising tension surrounding immigration practices not only highlights the current political strife but also reflects broader sentiments about community, safety, and the future of immigration policy in Maine.
