WASHINGTON (AP) — The heads of the agencies managing President Trump's mass deportation agenda will testify before Congress, facing scrutiny on their tactics for immigration enforcement in cities nationwide.
Concerns rose after violent incidents during protests against these immigration strategies, including the deaths of two protesters by Homeland Security officers in Minneapolis. Critics argue recent policies endanger both immigrants and citizens opposing these enforcement actions.
Top officials, including Todd Lyons of ICE and Rodney Scott of CBP, will appear before the House Committee on Homeland Security, just as public support for their agencies' methods wanes.
The agencies are currently backed by substantial funding from a recent spending bill, which has allowed for extensive immigration enforcement measures across the country. However, the growing backlash and accusations regarding rights violations present significant challenges to their operations.
Lyons is expected to be questioned about a controversial memo permitting ICE agents to enter homes for arrests without a judge’s warrant, raising Fourth Amendment concerns. Under Scott’s leadership, CBP’s role has shifted significantly towards enforcement within the country, creating tension as its traditional focus on border security changes.
Recent fatal incidents during enforcement actions have intensified scrutiny, adding to a climate of national debate — can those in charge of immigration enforcement maintain their directives while dealing with increasing public outcry?
As these officials defend their operations, the hearing presents a crucial moment to assess the direction of U.S. immigration policy.
