Governor Maura Healey is calling out federal immigration authorities over recent ICE raids conducted on the exclusive Massachusetts islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, expressing alarm over what she described as disturbing tactics and a lack of coordination.
Roughly 40 individuals were detained during the operations, including individuals with serious criminal records such as gang affiliations and prior sex offense convictions. While ICE defended the actions as necessary for public safety, Healey criticized the approach as disruptive and lacking in transparency.
According to state officials, no advance notice was given to local or state agencies prior to the enforcement sweeps, raising questions about communication between federal and local governments. ICE, however, maintained that it had followed proper protocols and notified appropriate parties.
The raids, which occurred in traditionally progressive and wealthy enclaves, have reignited debate over how immigration enforcement should be handled in sanctuary regions. Healey reiterated her commitment to protecting immigrant communities while balancing the enforcement of laws with respect for civil rights.
The situation has further underscored tensions between blue state leadership and the Trump administration’s hardline stance on immigration, especially as federal crackdowns increasingly target high-profile liberal areas.