Senate Democrats unveiled official policy demands to restrict President Donald Trump’s sweeping deportation agenda on Wednesday they say Congress must address before approving a federal funding bill.
The “legislative objectives,” as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) described them, mark a starting negotiation position from Democrats ahead of a Friday night funding deadline that is on pace to result in a partial government shutdown.
“What ICE is doing is state-sanctioned thuggery. It must stop,” Schumer said, referencing the fatal shootings of civilians in Minnesota by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal agents. “Republicans must work with Democrats to find legislative solutions to restore order and public safety. Congress has the authority and the moral obligation to act.”
Schumer laid out three overarching policy demands.
The first is for ICE and other federal officers to “end roving patrols,” “tighten” warrant requirements, and mandate “ICE’s coordination with state and local law enforcement.”
The second is a “uniform code of conduct and accountability” that is similar to use-of-force rules for local police.
And the third is prohibiting the use of masks while requiring body cameras and carrying identification.
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“These are common sense reforms, ones that Americans know and expect from law enforcement,” Schumer said. “If Republicans refuse to support them, they are choosing chaos over order.”
This is a developing story and will be updated with additional information.