Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar is encountering fierce opposition from MAGA supporters. The Democratic leader recently announced his intention to introduce a bill that would completely dismantle the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.
Thanedar Calls ICE "Beyond Reform"
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Thanedar made his position clear. He stated that ICE appears to be beyond any possibility of reform at this point. The congressman described the agency as totally out of control.
"We need to make ICE go away," Thanedar declared. "We do not need the murderers. We do not need this paramilitary organization's members on our streets terrorizing U.S. citizens and immigrants alike."
Tragic Shooting Sparks Legislative Action
Thanedar's proposal comes directly after a disturbing incident in Minneapolis. Earlier this month, an ICE officer fatally shot 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good. The victim was a mother, and her death has raised serious questions about agency conduct.
In an official press release, Thanedar connected this tragedy to his legislative effort. He argued that Good's death demonstrates ICE cannot be reformed and must be abolished entirely. The proposed "Abolish ICE Act" represents a step toward justice and accountability according to the congressman.
Conservative Backlash Targets Thanedar's Heritage
The announcement has ignited intense debate across political lines. MAGA commentators and conservative leaders have responded with sharp criticism. Some have targeted Thanedar's Indian heritage in their remarks.
Several critics have questioned the congressman's English language skills. They have called attention to his accent in what Democratic supporters describe as racist and xenophobic attacks. This personal targeting has added another layer of controversy to the policy discussion.
Broader Immigration Enforcement Debate
Thanedar has also criticized Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in his statements. He suggested she should face consequences and potentially be impeached. The congressman argued that immigration enforcement could be handled by other federal agencies instead.
It's worth noting that ICE was established in 2003 as part of government reorganization following the September 11 attacks. Thanedar's proposal would fundamentally change how immigration enforcement operates two decades later.
Recent Incidents Fuel Tensions
The controversy emerges amid ongoing tensions about ICE's tactics in American cities. Many Democratic-led urban areas have expressed concerns about aggressive enforcement methods.
On the same Wednesday as Thanedar's announcement, another incident occurred in Minneapolis. A federal agent shot a Venezuelan migrant who attempted to evade a traffic stop. Both individuals required hospitalization following the encounter.
Public Opinion and Political Support
Recent polling reveals a divided American public on this issue. An Economist/YouGov survey released this week shows 46 percent of respondents support abolishing ICE. Meanwhile, 43 percent oppose such a move.
Congressional Democrats have proposed various measures to constrain the agency. These include ending qualified immunity for ICE officers and withholding funding increases. Several prominent Democratic leaders have aligned themselves with Thanedar's position.
Representatives Ilhan Omar, Ro Khanna, and Pramila Jayapal have all expressed support for the congressman's approach. They join Thanedar in calling for significant changes to current immigration enforcement practices.
The debate over ICE's future continues to evolve as legislators consider different approaches to immigration policy. Thanedar's proposal represents one of the most dramatic suggestions for change currently under discussion in Congress.
