Immigration Enforcement

From the moment President Trump took office, his administration has led a Department of Homeland Security with no oversight, no chain of command, and a disturbing lack of humanity and restraint. This model of law enforcement is antithetical to who we are as a community, as a nation, and as a constitutional democracy.

Here in Western New York, we have experienced firsthand the powerful, positive impact immigration has on our country. In fact, for the first time in decades, Buffalo has seen our population grow, driven in large part by immigration. Our economy, culture, and values are stronger because of the contributions made by our immigrant community. We are proud to be a region that welcomes people seeking safety, opportunity, a better life, and the promise of the American dream.

But the Trump administration is threatening that promise.

Instead of working to build a fairer immigration system, this administration has chosen to demonize immigrants and expand enforcement tactics that are reckless, dangerous, and inhumane. And the consequences are not abstract – we’re seeing them in real-time, right in our own community.

The tragic death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam is a devastating example. A legally present refugee who was nearly blind and unable to communicate independently, Mr. Shah Alam was abandoned by DHS personnel on a cold winter night without support or guidance. Days later, he was found dead. This was a dereliction of duty, and it was preventable. This deadly consequence demands accountability, as do the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of DHS. 

As your representative in Congress, it has been my priority to push back against this rogue administration and to protect Western New York from the dangers of an unchecked DHS.

That is why I have:

• Demanded a full, transparent investigation into Mr. Shah Alam’s death.

• Pushed for stronger oversight of DHS and ICE.

• Pressed ICE leadership for accountability following the murders of two U.S. citizens, Renée Nicole Good and Alex Pretti.

• Voted against unchecked funding for ICE, and will continue to do so until Republicans come to the negotiating table to deliver meaningful reforms.

• Supported legislation to preserve civil liberties, ensure accountability, and protect vulnerable populations in immigration enforcement. This includes the Freeze ICE Act, Protecting Sensitive Locations Act, Humanitarian Standards for Individuals in ICE and CBP Custody Act, and the DHS Use of Force Act. 

We need an immigration system that is both lawful and humane – one that reflects our values, protects our communities, and upholds the Constitution.

Western New York is home to the City of Good Neighbors, and I will keep fighting to ensure the federal government and its policies live up to that standard.