Conservative Americans are rallying behind ICE as Trump’s return to the White House reignites the battle against radical leftist efforts to dismantle America’s immigration enforcement.
Story Overview
- “Stand with ICE” emerges as conservative counter-movement to progressive “Abolish ICE” demands
- ICE survived four years of Biden administration weakness and leftist attacks on enforcement
- Agency’s $6.9 billion budget reflects ongoing congressional support despite progressive opposition
- Trump’s return promises renewed backing for immigration officers vilified by woke activists
Conservative Counter-Movement Defends Border Security
The “Stand with ICE” movement represents patriotic Americans’ response to the radical “Abolish ICE” campaign launched by progressive Democrats and open-border activists. Since 2018, conservative politicians, law enforcement unions, and concerned citizens have united to defend Immigration and Customs Enforcement against unprecedented attacks from the left. This grassroots support emerged as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and other progressives demanded dismantling the agency responsible for protecting American communities from illegal immigration and transnational crime.
ICE Under Siege From Leftist Activists
Created in 2003 after 9/11 to consolidate immigration enforcement and homeland security investigations, ICE became a lightning rod during Trump’s first presidency when he restored proper enforcement priorities. Progressive activists launched coordinated campaigns including “Occupy ICE” protests and “Families Belong Together” demonstrations, seeking to cripple the agency’s operations. These radicals characterized routine law enforcement as human rights violations, while sanctuary jurisdictions actively obstructed federal immigration law. The attacks intensified when Trump ended catch-and-release policies that had encouraged massive illegal immigration under previous administrations.
Agency Survives Despite Four Years of Biden Sabotage
Throughout Biden’s term, ICE endured systematic undermining as the administration imposed restrictive enforcement priorities that essentially created a de facto amnesty for most illegal aliens. Despite progressive demands for abolition and internal pressure to split the agency’s functions, ICE maintained its institutional structure with Enforcement and Removal Operations handling deportations and Homeland Security Investigations targeting criminal networks. Congressional appropriations continued supporting the agency’s mission, reflecting recognition that immigration enforcement remains essential for national security. The agency’s survival demonstrates the failure of leftist efforts to completely dismantle border security infrastructure.
Trump’s Return Promises Renewed Law Enforcement Support
With Trump back in the White House, ICE agents can expect restored authority to enforce immigration law without political interference from woke bureaucrats. The “Stand with ICE” coalition successfully blocked abolition efforts during Trump’s absence, maintaining crucial enforcement capabilities for the new administration’s border security agenda. Conservative support for ICE reflects broader rejection of progressive policies that prioritized illegal aliens over American citizens and legal immigrants. This movement represents the common-sense understanding that sovereign nations must control their borders and enforce their laws, regardless of leftist attempts to characterize enforcement as somehow immoral or racist.
Sources:
What You Need to Know About the Call to Abolish ICE – American Friends Service Committee
The Abolish ICE Movement, Explained – Brennan Center for Justice
