Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal reaffirmed her controversial statement Thursday, insisting that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operates as a “terrorist force” and demanding the White House publicly apologize to the American people.
Jayapal defended her comment during a TV interview, citing what she described as alarming undercover operations: masked, plain-clothed agents detaining individuals without visible identification, in incidents she characterized as “kidnapping” and “disappearing” people—even American citizens.
Her remarks prompted a swift response from ICE leadership. Acting Director Todd Lyons challenged the comparison, recalling a 2019 domestic terror threat against an ICE facility in Washington and emphasizing rising assaults on ICE agents. Lyons stressed the agency’s enforcement work is grounded in law and public safety.
Despite criticism, Jayapal held firm, rejecting calls to retract her statement and shifting focus onto the White House. She argued that public officials should acknowledge the aggressive tactics she alleges ICE is using—and offer accountability through an official apology.
The exchange highlights a fierce clash over immigration policy and enforcement methods. As both sides amplify their narratives, the debate over ICE’s role and conduct in American communities shows no signs of cooling.