PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — U.S. Senator Susan Collins of Maine announced on Thursday a halt to the enhanced operations by immigration officials in the state, which caused a large enforcement surge with more than 100 arrests.
Collins, a Republican, made this statement following direct communications with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
“There are currently no ongoing or planned large-scale ICE operations here,” said Collins. “I have been urging Secretary Noem and others in the Administration to get ICE to reconsider its approach to immigration enforcement in the state.”
This news aligns with an effort from community leaders and lawmakers who have voiced concerns regarding ICE's approach and its impact on immigrant communities following several incidents of unrest, including a second deadly shooting by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
Collins confirmed that ICE will maintain its standard operational structure, which has been taking place for many years
The changes come in the wake of an operation called “Catch of the Day” that had begun more than a week prior, where federal officials indicated that around 1,400 people were operational targets. Reports show that on the first day alone, about 50 arrests were made.
While some of those arrested were convicted criminals, including serious offenses like aggravated assault, Collins is focusing on ensuring that those legally in the country are not targeted unfairly.
Amidst these developments, Maine's Democratic Governor Janet Mills has challenged ICE to provide more transparency, such as judicial warrants and detailed reports on who is being detained. Collins has so far refrained from criticizing ICE's operations openly but has suggested that practices like body cameras and trained personnel could foster trust and accountability.
The halt of these operations might influence the dynamics of Collins’ reelection campaign as tensions rise in the immigrant communities in Maine. The stakes are particularly high as Mills has also announced her candidacy for the gubernatorial seat.
