By Mona Austin
The Department of Homeland Security has turned its attention to another Democratic‑led state as part of its broader immigration enforcement push, announcing that additional Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel have been deployed to Maine.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, "Operation Catch of the Day" has begun to "target the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens who have terrorized communities."
Agents descended on Westbrook Maine earlier in the week, with officials stating that their focus will be on individuals they describe as the most serious offenders.
Governor Janet Mills responded in a statement, saying, “I recognize that many people across Maine are fearful in the wake of ICE’s announcement that it has launched an operation in Maine, and my Administration remains in close contact with municipal officials, including in Lewiston and Portland, as well as with organizations across Maine, to monitor ICE activity and ensure the safety and civil rights of people across Maine are protected. If the Federal government has warrants, then it should show them. But if they are separating working mothers from young children, solely because they sought freedom here and have committed no crime, then the Federal government is only sowing intimidation and fear and fostering division and suspicion among neighbors – none of which is welcome.”
DHS reported that the operation formally started on Tuesday and that 50 people accused of being in the country without legal authorization have already been taken into custody.
In a statement, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticized state leadership, saying that Governor Mills and other Maine officials are prioritizing sanctuary policies over public safety.