In Austin, Texas, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) faced internal disagreement on the future of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This debate highlights the party’s varied stances on President Donald Trump’s stringent immigration policies as the midterm elections approach.
At a summer gathering, the DNC approved two conflicting proposals. One advocates for significant reforms to ICE, while the other demands its abolishment. ICE has become a focal point for progressives since 2018, especially after recent fatal incidents involving the agency.
Although Saturday’s vote does not dictate the official party platform, which will be set during the 2028 convention, it emphasizes the party’s internal divide. Lawmakers and candidates will continue to form their own views on immigration.
Michele Johnson, a DNC member from Louisiana and proponent of abolishing ICE, urged the party to take definitive action. She referenced the previous dissolution of ICE’s predecessor, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, as an example. Johnson expressed concerns over the party’s cautious approach, stating, “We sound focus group tested, we sound poll tested because we’re worried about saying the wrong thing or doing the wrong thing.”
Not all DNC members agreed. Yvonne Reeves-Chong opposed the proposal, arguing it would alienate certain voter segments. “I would strongly suggest we get to the business of winning races so we can make the policies that make a difference,” Reeves-Chong remarked.
DNC Chairman Ken Martin, from Minnesota, commented on the wider consensus within the party. Martin stated that regardless of differing opinions on whether to reform or abolish ICE, Democrats unitedly oppose the current federal and ICE policies. “There has to be a better way,” he asserted.
An Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll revealed immigration remains a stronger issue for Trump compared to topics like the economy or Iran. The poll showed Trump’s approval rating for immigration handling dropped to 39%, down from 49% at the start of his second term, following incidents involving ICE.