UPDATE: U.S. Rep. Jared Golden of Maine has just confirmed his support for enhanced Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, which began this week in his hometown of Lewiston and the Portland area. In a statement released on October 25, 2023, Golden emphasized that his backing hinges on the operations targeting individuals “engaged in criminal activities.”
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that these actions are part of Operation Catch of the Day, which launched on October 24, 2023. Officials revealed that agents made 50 arrests on the first day and have identified over 1,000 individuals for potential detainment. Golden remarked, “So long as this remains a targeted law enforcement operation focused on individuals who have engaged in criminal activities, then I believe it legitimately serves the public interest.”
While Golden’s support reflects a rare bipartisan approach, local leaders and immigrant advocates have raised alarms over the operation’s scope. Critics warn that individuals without any criminal records may also be swept up in these raids, igniting fears of overreach reminiscent of controversial operations in other cities like Minneapolis and Chicago.
The political landscape in Maine is tense as Golden, who has often crossed party lines since taking office in 2019, announced he will not seek reelection this year amid increasing political incivility and threats against his family. His perspective on the ICE operation diverges sharply from that of his colleagues.
Senator Susan Collins, the only Republican in Maine’s congressional delegation, has not yet commented on the ongoing arrests but previously stated her support for deporting criminals while questioning the need for a large ICE presence in the state. In contrast, Rep. Chellie Pingree, a progressive from Maine’s 1st District, and Senator Angus King, an independent, have condemned the ICE actions as “inhumane.”
Pingree’s spokesperson criticized the administration for failing to communicate effectively with constituents, stating, “It’s interesting that ICE let the Fox News crew ride along, but they won’t talk to us.” King expressed plans to vote against federal funding for ICE until the agency respects constitutional rights and operates transparently.
ICE Deputy Assistant Director Patricia Hyde revealed that among those arrested were individuals from countries including Senegal, Honduras, Somalia, Guatemala, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with charges ranging from assault to drug trafficking.
As this situation develops, the focus on criminality raises significant concerns about the potential impact on immigrant communities in Maine. With ongoing operations expected, the discourse around immigration enforcement remains a critical issue for local and national observers.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent and evolving story.
