In Austin, Democrats showed sharp differences over whether the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) should be abolished or reformed. This debate highlights opposition to former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. During their summer meeting, the Democratic National Committee discussed various policy positions. These included calls for concrete reforms of ICE and another view advocating for its abolition. ICE has become a central issue for progressives since 2018, a reaction that recently intensified following two fatal ICE-related incidents in July.

Although the vote is not binding or part of the official party platform, it demonstrates the range of opinions within the party. Party members are free to establish their own stances on the topic. Michele Johnson, a DNC member from Louisiana, pushed for abolishing ICE. She cited the historical dissolution of ICE’s predecessor, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, as an example. Johnson expressed frustration, saying, “We sound focus group tested, we sound poll tested because we’re worried about saying the wrong thing or doing the wrong thing and not just like, just stand on business, take a position.”

Not all agree with Johnson’s position. Yvonne Reeves-Chong voted against the abolition, suggesting that winning elections should be a priority to effect real policy changes. She warned that abolishing ICE might alienate some party supporters.

DNC Chairman Ken Martin noted that despite differing views on ICE, Democrats are united in their criticism of the current administration’s immigration policies. Events like the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minnesota this year highlight the issue.

A recent poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that immigration remains a significant issue for Trump supporters, more so than the economy or Iran. The survey revealed that only 39% of U.S. adults approve of Trump’s immigration performance, a decline from earlier in his term.