Rep. Eric Swalwell Vows to Push Back on ICE in California Governor Bid
California Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democratic candidate for governor, pledged aggressive opposition to federal immigration enforcement during a town hall meeting in Sacramento. Speaking to supporters less than a month before primary mail-in ballots are distributed, Swalwell promised to make Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers ineligible for state jobs and revoke their driver’s licenses if they refuse to unmask while on duty. He characterized ICE agents as believing they are invincible, asserting they are not. Although he did not detail the legal mechanisms for these policies, which would likely face significant judicial challenges, the stance aims to distinguish him in a crowded Democratic field. Swalwell highlighted his experience as a House manager in President Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial to portray himself as a battle-tested fighter. He reiterated his support for abolishing ICE and defunding the agency, responding to criticism from rivals regarding his previous stance. The race is critical for Democrats, who fear a split vote could prevent any of their candidates from advancing to the November general election under California’s top-two primary system.
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Rep. Eric Swalwell Vows to Push Back on ICE in California Governor Bid
California Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democratic candidate for governor, pledged aggressive opposition to federal immigration enforcement during a town hall meeting in Sacramento. Speaking to supporters less than a month before primary mail-in ballots are distributed, Swalwell promised to make Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers ineligible for state jobs and revoke their driver’s licenses if they refuse to unmask while on duty. He characterized ICE agents as believing they are invincible, asserting they are not. Although he did not detail the legal mechanisms for these policies, which would likely face significant judicial challenges, the stance aims to distinguish him in a crowded Democratic field. Swalwell highlighted his experience as a House manager in President Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial to portray himself as a battle-tested fighter. He reiterated his support for abolishing ICE and defunding the agency, responding to criticism from rivals regarding his previous stance. The race is critical for Democrats, who fear a split vote could prevent any of their candidates from advancing to the November general election under California’s top-two primary system.
AP News