In Austin, Texas, local Democrats are under scrutiny following their quick condemnation of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. This comes after an ICE officer shot a man suspected of being an illegal immigrant. Criticism emerged both online and from a retired police officer who spoke with Fox News Digital. The shooting occurred on Sunday, and before any investigation or identification of the man as Wilber Rafael Garces Perez was complete, several Austin Democrats expressed disapproval.
Among those who spoke against ICE were Rep. Greg Casar, Councilman Mike Siegel, and Mayor Kirk Watson. During a press conference, Casar remarked on the increasing presence of ICE in Austin and its implications for the community’s safety. Mayor Watson’s similar stance has also drawn attention.
Conservatives have accused these Democrats of selective outrage concerning crime committed by illegal immigrants. Social media criticism highlighted past incidents where they felt similar attention was warranted but lacking. Former Secretary Tricia McLaughlin and other conservatives voiced strong reactions on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the inconsistency in responses to crimes associated with illegal immigrants.
“The Democrats want no immigration laws. They want to destroy this nation. Remember this in November,” expressed Amy Curtis from Townhall.
Dennis Farris, president of the Austin Police Retired Officers Association, addressed Fox News Digital, stating that Casar’s rhetoric was predictable, but Mayor Watson’s response was surprising and intensified tensions. Farris reflected on Mayor Watson’s usually measured approach and expressed disappointment over his recent comments.
Mayor Watson’s social media posts received predominantly negative reactions. Prominent Austin figures criticized his premature statements, cautioning against further escalations before investigations conclude.
Farris argued against claims that ICE’s actions in Austin are unique, asserting that federal immigration authorities have long conducted such operations. He suggested that the recent reactions may be politically motivated, aimed at criticizing the current administration.
Following the shooting, Austin Police reported the arrest of three individuals, with several police vehicles damaged and two officers injured during subsequent protests. Authorities confirmed Garces Perez, a Venezuelan national with a final order of removal, was shot during a law enforcement operation. The Department of Homeland Security stated that he entered the United States unlawfully during Biden’s administration.
Garces Perez’s attorney, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, claims he was working for DoorDash when the incident occurred and described scenarios leading to the shooting, alleging it stemmed from a misunderstanding with ICE. She highlighted issues with deportation notices attributed to incorrect address notifications.