Democrats Divided: DNC Approves Both Abolish and Reform Stances on ICE

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) has approved dueling resolutions regarding the future of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), revealing deep divisions within the party over the agency's role. Gathered for a summer meeting, Democrats endorsed both measures calling for the abolition of ICE and others advocating for "concrete reforms."

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I think one of the reasons why people are not trusting the party is because we sound so academic. We sound focus group tested, we sound poll tested because we’re worried about saying the wrong thing or doing the wrong thing and not just like, just stand on business, like take a position.

These votes, though not binding for the party's official platform set for the 2028 convention, underscore the sharp opposition to President Donald Trump's immigration policies. The agency has become a focal point for progressive criticism, particularly after recent fatal shootings by ICE agents in July.

Michele Johnson, a DNC member from Louisiana, argued for abolishing ICE, drawing a parallel to the dissolution of its predecessor agency. "I think one of the reasons why people are not trusting the party is because we sound so academic," she stated, urging a more decisive stance. However, not all members agreed. Yvonne Reeves-Chong voted against abolition, warning it could alienate voters and hinder the party's ability to win elections and enact policy changes.

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I would strongly suggest we get to the business of winning races so we can make the policies that make a difference.

DNC Chairman Ken Martin acknowledged the party's unified disapproval of the current immigration enforcement, regardless of the specific approach to ICE. "Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now, and CBP and the federal government, should stop," he said. Recent polling indicates immigration remains a potent issue for Trump, with public approval of his handling of the matter declining.

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Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now, and CBP and the federal government, should stop. There has to be a better way.