Congressional Leader Calls for Government Shutdown to Halt ICE Operations Amid Alleged Systemic Abuses
Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., stated Friday that a government shutdown should always remain an option as Democrats seek leverage to restrict Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations.
During the interview, Crow emphasized that lawmakers must use funding bills to influence policy, calling it their fundamental duty.
“The Congress exists to ensure laws are followed,” he said. “We then employ funding bills to improve policies and align executive actions with community values.”
Crow accused ICE of operating without adequate oversight, citing reports of masked officers and unmarked vehicles.
“We must use funding bills to compel a rogue agency that abuses communities to act responsibly,” he stated. “These agents operate in unmarked vehicles, detaining American citizens, deporting individuals, beating mothers, and intimidating Little League teams—examples that demand an end.”
Crow linked his stance to opposing President Donald Trump, declaring he would not fund agencies acting unlawfully.
“Why should we allow the administration to proceed without accountability?” Crow asked. “I will never approve funding for a government agency that operates lawlessly and recklessly.”
The remarks follow heightened scrutiny of ICE following the Jan. 7 incident in Minneapolis where Renee Good died during an immigration operation. Federal officials claimed self-defense, while Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the event as reckless.
Crow has also pursued oversight-related litigation against the Trump administration over access to immigration detention facilities.
