Key facts
- Members of Congress were denied access to detainees at Delaney Hall.
- Democrats attribute the denial to the Trump administration and a new interpretation of oversight laws.
- Lawmakers heard testimony alleging poor conditions and treatment of detainees.
- The White House has disputed claims of poor conditions at the facility.
- Democrats suggest the denial is intended to prevent detainees' stories from reaching the public.
Members of Congress reported being denied access to detainees at the Delaney Hall immigration detention facility, a move they attribute to the Trump administration and suggest represents a new interpretation of oversight laws. Representative Thompson stated that the policy was not intended to be used in this manner, while Representative Menendez described the situation as unique, having conducted similar visits 16 times previously.
Democrats believe the denial aims to prevent the public from hearing the stories of detainees, which they argue contradicts the administration's narrative of holding "the worst of the worst." Conditions inside Delaney Hall remain disputed, with Democratic lawmakers hearing testimony about poor treatment and food during a hearing led by Thompson. The White House has contested these characterizations.
No representatives from the Trump administration testified at the hearing. Thompson indicated that the event served as a preview of the scrutiny Department of Homeland Security (DHS) could face if Democrats regain control of the House in the upcoming midterm elections, noting Republicans have not conducted basic oversight.