PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The Trump administration is intensifying its immigration enforcement efforts in Maine with a new operation called Catch of the Day. Although the state has a relatively small population of undocumented residents, it features a vibrant community of refugees, particularly in cities like Portland and Lewiston, where many residents hail from African countries, notably Somalia.
This escalated focus has left immigrant communities reeling with fear, prompting backlash from local leaders, including Governor Janet Mills, who has stated her refusal to assist federal agents in using undercover license plates for their operations.
Catch of the Day aims to apprehend individuals categorized as serious offenders, with reports indicating the operation targets around 1,000 residents. As ICE agents conduct raids, local officials, including Portland city council member Pious Ali, have voiced concerns over the anxiety felt by immigrants who contribute significantly to various sectors within the state.
Families are reporting a marked drop in school attendance among immigrant children due to fears related to the operation. Our schools have seen about a quarter of immigrants not showing up, Ali noted, emphasizing that many immigrants work across vital sectors like healthcare and education.
In response to escalating ICE presence, Maine’s Secretary of State Shenna Bellows has halted the issuance of new undercover license plates for federal agents, citing potential abuse of power witnessed in other states.
Local political leaders, including mayors of Portland and Lewiston, alongside various community organizations, have condemned the aggressive ICE tactics, labeling them as counterproductive to community safety and cohesion. Governor Mills highlighted that such enforcement actions undermine civil rights and foster an environment of mistrust.
The escalating ICE operations take place amidst a broader national discussion on immigration policies, as Maine residents seek to balance concerns over safety and the contributions of its diverse populations.
This escalated focus has left immigrant communities reeling with fear, prompting backlash from local leaders, including Governor Janet Mills, who has stated her refusal to assist federal agents in using undercover license plates for their operations.
Catch of the Day aims to apprehend individuals categorized as serious offenders, with reports indicating the operation targets around 1,000 residents. As ICE agents conduct raids, local officials, including Portland city council member Pious Ali, have voiced concerns over the anxiety felt by immigrants who contribute significantly to various sectors within the state.
Families are reporting a marked drop in school attendance among immigrant children due to fears related to the operation. Our schools have seen about a quarter of immigrants not showing up, Ali noted, emphasizing that many immigrants work across vital sectors like healthcare and education.
In response to escalating ICE presence, Maine’s Secretary of State Shenna Bellows has halted the issuance of new undercover license plates for federal agents, citing potential abuse of power witnessed in other states.
Local political leaders, including mayors of Portland and Lewiston, alongside various community organizations, have condemned the aggressive ICE tactics, labeling them as counterproductive to community safety and cohesion. Governor Mills highlighted that such enforcement actions undermine civil rights and foster an environment of mistrust.
The escalating ICE operations take place amidst a broader national discussion on immigration policies, as Maine residents seek to balance concerns over safety and the contributions of its diverse populations.
