The recent killing of Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer in Minneapolis has reignited outrage over the agency’s aggressive tactics across the United States. While a complete dismantling of ICE is unlikely in the short term, a critical window exists to influence its funding through direct action: contacting your members of Congress before the January 30th deadline.
The Funding Deadline and Why It Matters
Congress must pass a new budget for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – the parent agency of ICE – by the end of January. Failure to do so risks another government shutdown. This process, known as “appropriations,” involves negotiating funding levels for various agencies. Currently, DHS has a substantial financial reserve, meaning even a budget freeze wouldn’t immediately halt ICE operations. However, direct constituent pressure can significantly shape the debate and demonstrate widespread opposition to current ICE practices.
How to Make Your Voice Heard
The most effective action is simple: call your two state senators and your representative. The goal is to overwhelm their offices with calls demanding scrutiny of ICE funding. Experts agree that even brief, emotionally charged messages are impactful. According to policy advocates, simply stating “I’m angry and scared about what ICE is doing in my neighborhood, and I want you to stop giving them money” is sufficient.
Here’s how to find your representatives: use the tool on Congress.gov. Include your name, phone number, and zip code when calling. Repeat this action daily to maximize impact.
The Bipartisan Reality of ICE Funding
ICE funding has historically enjoyed bipartisan support, increasing year after year. Both Democrats and Republicans have contributed to this trend. Therefore, reaching out to officials in both parties is vital. Even in traditionally conservative states, public pressure can force re-evaluation. The goal isn’t necessarily immediate defunding but demonstrating widespread public disapproval of ICE’s current operations.
What Your Call Achieves
Congressional staffers meticulously record constituent opinions on key issues. A surge of calls against ICE funding will create a documented record that elected officials cannot ignore. This record influences future decisions and sends a clear message that the public is no longer willing to tolerate unchecked ICE power.
“ICE must be reined in, and unfortunately neither a continuing resolution nor a shutdown would do anything to restrain it…because, thanks to Republicans, ICE is now sitting on a massive slush fund.” – Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)
Despite the agency’s financial resilience, collective action can shift the political landscape. The immediate goal is to make opposition to ICE’s aggressive tactics unavoidable for lawmakers, regardless of party affiliation.
Take action now: call your members of Congress before January 30th. Your voice matters, and collective pressure is the most effective tool available to challenge ICE’s unchecked authority.
