Political Report

As Trump Departs, Some Democrats May Seek Cover to Maintain Ties with ICE

Officials in a New Jersey county voted last week to renew a lucrative contract with ICE and continue detaining immigrants.

Daniel Nichanian Dec 04, 2020

The Major Blindspot Undermining Sanctuary Cities and Helping ICE

Massive data networks help ICE target immigrants, even in so-called sanctuary cities. Will the Biden administration and local officials shut them down?

Will Lennon Nov 19, 2020

ICE Suffered Blows in the South in Last Week’s Elections

Voters in populous Georgia and South Carolina counties elected sheriffs who ran on ending contracts with ICE.

Daniel Nichanian Nov 12, 2020

These Twelve Elections Could Curb ICE’s Powers

In many places that have long helped arrest and detain immigrants, voters will decide the fate of local partnerships with ICE, possibly dealing a series of blows to the agency.

Daniel Nichanian Oct 09, 2020

Georgia Sheriff Elections Could Limit ICE’s Reach

In Gwinnett and Cobb counties, sheriff candidates are promising to roll back cooperation with ICE. Advocates say they should cut ties completely, while the federal agency threatens retaliation.

Timothy Pratt Sep 04, 2020

Policing And Ties With ICE On The Menu In Norfolk County’s Sheriff Race

This Massachusetts special election, which starts with next week’s Democratic primary, will shape criminal justice reform prospects in this county—and in state politics.

Daniel Nichanian Aug 25, 2020

How ICE is Using Private Contractors to Dodge Local Democracy

The agency is pursuing contracts with private detention providers to circumvent state and local efforts to curtail and regulate immigrant detention.

Felipe De La Hoz May 26, 2020

This Tense Sheriff’s Race Could Change Cincinnati’s Poor Jail Conditions

Ohio advocates are resisting proposals to expand the jail and local cooperation with ICE. In the primary on Tuesday, the sheriff and his challenger disagree on both fronts.

Teresa Mathew Mar 12, 2020

New Jersey Attorney General Bans ICE’s 287(g) Program

Gurbir Grewal terminated existing 287(g) contracts. But immigrants will continue to be treated differently.

Daniel Nichanian Oct 04, 2019

In Louisiana, Sheriff Elections Will Shape ICE’s Reach

“They’re trying to send Hispanics to Mexico or Honduras and put Black men in jail,” said one candidate regarding prevailing practices. “The United States is made for everybody.”

Daniel Nichanian Sep 19, 2019