Larson Opposes $70 Billion Republican Blank Check for ICE

Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) opposed Republicans’ budget resolution advancing a $70 billion blank check for ICE and Border Patrol. Last month, the Senate unanimously voted to provide funding to ensure pay for TSA and the Coast Guard, but House Republicans have refused to hold a vote – refusing to fund paychecks for TSA officers and members of the Coast Guard unless billions in new funding is approved for ICE. Larson has called for disbanding ICE and diverting their funding to build more affordable housing and lower healthcare costs. He also introduced the Make America Govern Again (MAGA) Act to ensure all civilian and military personnel get paid during an agency shutdown, while withholding pay for Members of Congress, the President, the Vice President, and members of the Cabinet.   

“Last year, Republicans gave ICE a $75 billion slush fund, transforming the agency into Donald Trump’s personal army in essence,” said Larson. “We have seen agents execute U.S. citizens in the streets, snatch mothers from their children in our communities, and use excessive force against peaceful protesters. Now, they want to pass another $70 billion for this cruel and lawless agenda – holding up pay for our hard-working TSA officers and Coast Guard until ICE gets another blank check. I have opposed ICE since its inception. They don’t need more funding – they need to be disbanded. Congress should focus on paying our civil servants and troops and taking on the high prices squeezing families thanks to the failed Trump agenda, not billions for ICE. Democrats are ready to act for the American people.”