Donald Trump has shared a supporter’s social media post suggesting that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) be renamed to National Immigration and Customs Enforcement, so that the media would be forced to refer to “NICE agents” in their coverage. The president reposted the message on his Truth Social platform, adding his own comment: “GREAT IDEA!!! DO IT . President DJT.”
Support from MAGA followers
The original post, written by a self-professed MAGA journalist, has garnered over 800,000 views and received praise from other Trump supporters. While it remains unclear whether the president’s endorsement is serious, Trump has a history of advocating name changes since returning to office. He issued an executive order rebranding the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, and another renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War.
ICE’s controversial role
ICE has become increasingly contentious during Trump’s second presidency as the agency enforces his immigration crackdown. Masked ICE agents have been deployed to cities across the United States. In January, Minneapolis became a flashpoint after two residents were shot dead by federal agents. The Department of Homeland Security closed in mid-February after Democrats demanded reforms following the killings. In March, Trump fired then-DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.
Senate budget resolution
Senate Republicans approved a budget resolution on Thursday to fund ICE and Customs and Border Protection, passing in a 50-48 vote. The bill allows up to $140 billion to be allocated to the two agencies. All Senate Democrats and two Republicans opposed the measure. However, the resolution must still be adopted by the House of Representatives before legislation can be written to formally provide funding.
Democratic criticism
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the resolution, stating: “$140 billion for ICE. $0 to lower your costs. That’s the choice Republicans made tonight. While families are paying more for gas, groceries, and housing, Republicans are writing a $140 billion dollar check to Trump’s enforcement machine.” A Senate GOP aide told The Washington Post that Republicans expect to spend around half of the potential $140 billion.
