Lubbock rally speaker urges ending ICE
A Texas state legislative candidate called for abolishing the agency ahead of a speech by James Talarico, a nominee who has rejected that position.
By Bianca Herrera ·
Malik Williams called for the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement while opening a Tuesday night rally in Lubbock for U.S. Senate nominee James Talarico.
Williams, a Democratic candidate for the Texas legislature, told the audience that the party would tax the rich and legalize cannabis. He then introduced Talarico, describing him as the next United States Senator from Texas. The crowd responded with loud applause.
Talarico, a Democrat running in a historically Republican state, has generally avoided such direct calls in his campaign. During a joint town hall hosted by CNN and Jubilee, he stated plainly that he does not support abolishing ICE. He said, "No, and I never have." He argued that the country needs the agency, but not the version currently operating. He described the past year of operations as a "secret police force" that Americans do not want.
This stance contrasts with Talarico's remarks from earlier in the year. In a January primary debate with Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Talarico said it was time to "tear down" ICE. He cited specific incidents, including claims that the agency shot a mother in the face and kidnapped a five-year-old boy. He proposed replacing the agency with one focused on public safety and said agents should testify before Congress.
Williams's speech addressed other policies favored by the Democratic Socialists of America. He advocated for guaranteed childcare, expanded healthcare, and more funding for public education. He also criticized local ranchers and farmers for being forced to accept data centers without consent. He referred to Republican opponents as supporting a "fascist, racist, rapist, war criminal," a description aimed at President Donald Trump and Talarico's opponent, Ken Paxton.
Public opinion on the agency remains mixed. A July YouGov and The Economist poll found that 48% of Americans support abolishing ICE. Among Republicans, 67% strongly oppose the idea. A February poll from The Texas Politics Project showed that 42% of Texas voters view the agency favorably, while 47% view it unfavorably.
The campaigns for Talarico, Williams, and Paxton did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the remarks.
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