In Buffalo, a planned Department of Homeland Security (DHS) career expo faced cancellation due to objections over U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) involvement. This decision stirred debate about authority and public safety concerns.
Republican’s Accusation of Overreach
Lindsay Lorigo, a Republican Erie County Legislator, criticized Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz for overstepping his bounds by allegedly influencing the convention center’s decision to cancel. She emphasized the impact on vendors who had already invested in the event’s setup, expressing hope for a reversal.
“The county executive has completely surpassed his power and authority,” Lorigo told Fox News Digital.
DHS Defends ICE Participation
DHS defended ICE, highlighting a May Harvard CAPS/Harris survey indicating 80% public support for deporting immigrants who commit crimes. A spokesperson stressed that ICE agents aim to protect Americans, contrasting performative outrage with the real threat of illegal alien crime.
Local Labor Concerns
The cancellation came amid challenging employment conditions. Data showed 25,100 unemployed individuals in the Buffalo-Cheektowaga area in July, with a 4.4% jobless rate—a slight increase from the previous year.
Poloncarz’s Position and Statements
Mark Poloncarz indicated that while Erie County owns the convention center, it doesn’t manage bookings or operations. He learned of the expo late and requested its cancellation, citing a clash with community values.
The Buffalo Convention Center is a publicly owned community asset, and I do not believe it should be used to support recruitment efforts that are inconsistent with the values we have repeatedly expressed as a welcoming community,” Poloncarz stated.
Management’s Decision
Patrick Kaler, President and CEO of the convention center, revealed that an attempt was made to proceed without ICE, which proved unfeasible. Consequently, the decision favored the community’s perceived best interests.
Further commentary from Poloncarz was pending at the time of reporting.