Expert Warns of Rising Violence Against ICE Officers, Blames Democrats

An immigration expert is expressing serious concerns about the increasing violence directed at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. According to testimony provided by Mike Howell, president of the Oversight Project, there has been a dramatic surge in assaults against these officers.

Howell stated that the reported increase is likely an underestimation, suggesting the actual number could be significantly higher. He believes that many instances of violence, such as rock-throwing and spitting, may not result in arrests, contributing to the underreporting.

The Oversight Project, an independent group focused on government transparency, was founded in 2022. Howell presented his testimony before the House Committee on Homeland Security.

He attributes the rise in violence to the messaging from Democrats, which he believes excuses the physical abuse of federal officials. Howell claims that some Democrats are even participating in violence to appease their base. He cited specific examples of congressional members whose actions he views as contributing to the problem.

Howell emphasized the need for public officials to adopt a zero-tolerance stance towards political violence against federal law enforcement. He urged Republicans to treat the issue as a matter of law and order, not a political disagreement.

He suggested that the House could establish a committee similar to the January 6th committee to investigate the connections between actions of national Democrat politicians and the resulting violence.

Howell also argued that mass deportations are the most effective policy to prevent future mass illegal migration to the United States. He believes that returning people home in large numbers would deter others from attempting to enter the country illegally.