Washington, DC – House Democrats on Thursday cited what they described as “brutal attacks” during a hearing examining U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement practices under the Trump administration.
The Democratic Steering and Policy Committee convened the session to review current immigration enforcement operations overseen by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Lawmakers alleged patterns of misconduct and called for increased transparency and oversight.
“For months, our communities have withstood brutal attacks by their own government,” said Rep. Robin Kelly, co-chair of the committee, arguing that testimony presented during the hearing reflected systemic issues within ICE and the Department of Homeland Security.
Co-Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz said the hearing highlighted what she characterized as agency abuses and urged reforms before Congress considers future DHS funding legislation.
Rep. Nanette Barragán, also serving as co-chair, alleged that enforcement actions in communities such as Los Angeles County have included racial profiling, intimidation and due process concerns.
Five witnesses testified, including a Marine veteran whose father was detained by ICE agents, a Minneapolis pastor, a policy director with the American Immigration Council, a Minnesota police chief and a civil rights attorney.
DHS has previously stated that ICE operations prioritize public safety and are conducted in accordance with federal law. Republican leadership did not immediately respond to statements made during the hearing.
The Steering and Policy Committee said it has now held 18 hearings this session addressing immigration enforcement, healthcare, Social Security and veterans’ issues.
