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Published: Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 6:16 pm

Senator Gallego Calls for Dismantling of ICE, Signaling Shift in Immigration Debate

In a significant development, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) has publicly advocated for the complete dismantling of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. Speaking on CNN this morning, Gallego stated that ICE should be "totally torn down" and replaced with a new immigration enforcement agency. He emphasized the need for an agency that operates under the rule of law, enforces immigration laws humanely, and focuses on targeting criminals rather than engaging in what he described as "presidential paramilitary" tactics.

Gallego's stance is particularly noteworthy given his background. He previously represented a progressive House district and has since shifted his position on immigration issues to appeal to a broader electorate. His call to dismantle ICE suggests a growing consensus within the Democratic party regarding the agency's effectiveness and public perception.

The senator's comments reflect a broader trend in public opinion. Recent polling indicates that a majority of Americans believe ICE operations make areas less safe and contribute to chaos and violence. Gallego's position aligns with this sentiment, suggesting that the agency has lost public trust.

Gallego's remarks echo similar sentiments expressed by other prominent figures. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, also appearing on CNN, criticized the deployment of militarized troops in cities based on their political affiliations, emphasizing the importance of upholding American values.

BNN's Perspective:

Senator Gallego's call to dismantle ICE and rebuild a new immigration enforcement agency is a bold move that reflects the evolving political landscape. While the debate surrounding immigration enforcement remains complex, the senator's stance acknowledges the need for reform and a more humane approach. This shift could signal a broader trend within the Democratic party, potentially leading to significant policy changes in the future.

Keywords: Ruben Gallego, ICE, immigration, enforcement, dismantle, abolish, Democrats, policy, politics, public opinion, CNN, Arizona, Jacob Frey, militarized troops, rule of law, humane, immigration laws

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