Border-state Democrats are shifting their messaging on immigration enforcement, moving away from calls to abolish ICE. Representatives like Henry Cuellar emphasize reforms and safeguards, while other candidates sidestep direct questions about abolishing the agency, focusing instead on constitutional adherence and national values.
The shift in messaging by some Democrats on immigration enforcement reflects a strategic effort to appeal to a broader electorate and avoid alienating moderate voters in key swing districts, potentially impacting the party's electoral success in upcoming elections.
Democrats in border states are recalibrating their messaging on immigration enforcement, with some moving away from calls to abolish the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. Representative Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), who is the ranking member on the Homeland Security Appropriations subcommittee, has stated that he does not believe in abolishing ICE or defunding the police, but advocates for reforms. He has proposed measures such as mandatory body cameras for ICE agents, requiring judicial warrants for home or worksite entries, and reinstating guidance to avoid enforcement actions in sensitive areas like churches and hospitals.
Some Democratic candidates are also distancing themselves from the "abolish ICE" slogan. Abel Prado, campaign manager for Bobby Pulido, the Democratic nominee in Texas' 15th District, indicated that his campaign does not closely follow national Democratic stances on this issue. William Lawrence, who won the Democratic primary in Michigan's 7th District, previously called for abolishing ICE but has since stated that the agency's name is less important than ensuring immigration policy adheres to the Constitution and national values.
Frank Sharry, a Democratic immigration activist and senior fellow at Third Way who advised both President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on immigration policy, suggested that the "abolish ICE" slogan is primarily effective in primaries and within progressive circles. He advised that Democratic candidates aiming to win competitive House and Senate seats, and ultimately the White House in 2028, would be wise to avoid such rally cries.