During a House Judiciary Committee meeting, Republican lawmakers voted down a Democratic amendment that would have prohibited Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from using federal resources to detain or deport U.S. citizens. The amendment, introduced by Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), aimed to ensure that only non-citizens are subject to immigration enforcement. The measure was proposed amid concerns raised by recent actions and statements from former President Donald Trump, who suggested deporting U.S.-born criminals to countries like El Salvador.
Democrats argue such enforcement raises serious constitutional issues, particularly following instances where U.S.-born children were reportedly removed without proper legal procedures. A federal judge recently criticized one such case involving a 2-year-old sent to Honduras. While the Department of Homeland Security maintains that removals occurred with parental consent, legal experts and lawmakers warn that any move to deport U.S. citizens would violate due process protections affirmed by the Supreme Court.
Public opinion remains divided on immigration policy, with recent polls showing more Americans disapprove than approve of the Trump administration’s approach. The budget bill, including immigration enforcement funding, is expected to advance through Congress.
Reference: Rahman, Billal. “Republicans Vote Against Move To Stop ICE Deporting US Citizens” Newsweek. May 3, 2025.
