Senator Lankford on ICE, Government Shutdowns, and Border Security

Democratic Demands on ICE

• 🎯 Senator James Lankford states that Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, are attempting to use the current political moment to limit the operational capabilities of ICE.
• 🚫 These demands include restricting ICE's areas of patrol and requiring agents to remove masks, which Lankford argues would expose them to doxing and intimidation of their families by protesters.
• ⚠️ Lankford also criticizes the proposal to eliminate administrative warrants, which would prevent federal agents from apprehending individuals convicted of state crimes like DUIs or assaults.

The Purpose of ICE Agent Masks

• 🛡️ The request for ICE agents to wear masks is presented as a protective measure against protesters who dox agents and target their families.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Lankford highlights the hypocrisy of liberal activists who advocate for the protection of children of undocumented immigrants but show "no mercy" for the children of ICE agents.
• 🔍 The senator views the mask removal demand as a thinly veiled attempt to undermine and stop ICE from performing its duties.

Government Shutdown Standoff

• 🏛️ Lankford explains that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding bill, which passed the House with 80% bipartisan support, is being held up by Democratic demands.
• 📉 Democrats are reportedly using the DHS funding as leverage to shut down the government, citing anger over events in Minnesota, despite many of their desired provisions being already included in the bill.
• ⏳ With a Friday midnight deadline, Lankford expresses concern that the House is not present to negotiate, potentially leading to a government shutdown over the weekend.

Border Security and Immigration Policy

• 📈 Lankford agrees with the host that President Trump's policies successfully closed the border and stopped illegal immigration.
• 🚫 He contrasts this with the current situation, expressing strong disapproval of 10-20 million illegal immigrants crossing the border, bringing associated issues like gangs, sex trafficking, drug trafficking, and homicides.
• ✈️ The senator notes the impact of potential shutdowns on essential services like FEMA and TSA, referencing TSA agents who have previously gone unpaid during shutdowns.