Former Washington Governor Jay Inslee (D) has sparked backlash after calling on Congress to include language prohibiting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from operating near polling places in the upcoming federal spending bill.
Inslee described the measure as a “must have” and warned it could be the “last chance to do this” during negotiations on the legislation. In his statement, he asserted: “In the midst of ICE horror, the Senate needs to prohibit Trump from using ICE as a voter suppression tool.”
The remarks drew immediate criticism from conservative commentators, including Wade Miller of the Center for Renewing America, who quipped: “Hmmm. Interesting that you think ICE would suppress voting.”
This dispute intensifies amid national debates over election integrity and illegal immigration. Congressional Republicans are pushing the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which requires proof of U.S. citizenship to register for federal elections. Supporters argue it prevents noncitizen participation, while Democrats contend it could hinder eligible voters.
Peer-reviewed research suggests that noncitizens do vote illegally in U.S. elections—often supporting Democratic candidates—and in sufficient numbers to influence outcomes. Studies indicate such voting may have contributed to Senate Democrats securing the pivotal 60 votes needed to pass healthcare reforms and other Obama administration priorities during the 111th Congress.
