Democrats have sharply criticized federal immigration officers for using lethal force in Minneapolis and Portland last week. Some even described the shootings as murder.
Contrasting Reactions: Jan. 6 vs ICE Shootings
Earlier this year, Democratic leaders such as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned federal claims justifying the Minneapolis and Portland shootings. Yet, the same Democrats also criticized the multimillion-dollar settlement awarded to Ashli Babbitt’s family, calling it a “slap in the face” to police. Babbitt was killed by a U.S. Capitol Police officer on Jan. 6, 2021, while pushing against a door into the Speaker’s Lobby.
Other Democrats who supported law enforcement’s actions on Jan. 6 have criticized ICE and CBP agents following last week’s incidents.
Minneapolis and Portland Shootings
In Minneapolis, Renee Good, accused of interfering with deportation efforts, was fatally shot by ICE. In Portland, CBP agents shot an illegal immigrant couple allegedly involved in criminal activity after their car attempted to ram officers.
Rep. Dan Goldman, D-N.Y., called the ICE shooting in Minneapolis “murder,” yet earlier introduced legislation honoring Capitol Police for defending the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., also praised Capitol Police during Jan. 6 events but condemned ICE agents for “outright murder” last week.
Lawmakers Question Federal Officials
Reps. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., and Jason Crow, D-Colo., highlighted a stark contrast in their reactions. They praised Capitol Police on Jan. 6 but condemned ICE officers in Minneapolis. Raskin emphasized that Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, was a U.S. citizen and criticized the Trump administration for immediately labeling her a domestic terrorist.
Raskin also demanded that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testify before Congress about the Minnesota shooting.
Meanwhile, U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks blamed political rhetoric from some Democrats for encouraging dangerous acts, including attempts to ram cars into federal agents.
