PORTLAND, Maine — U.S. Senator Susan Collins stated today that immigration officials have officially ceased their enhanced operations in Maine, which had recently led to an uptick in enforcement actions across the state with over 100 arrests made.
Collins, a Republican, announced the end of these operations after her direct communications with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. She emphasized, There are currently no ongoing or planned large-scale ICE operations here, indicating her advocacy for a reassessment of ICE's approach in Maine.
This announcement follows President Donald Trump's indication of reducing tensions in the aftermath of a deadly shooting incident involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis. Collins noted that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would return to their routine operations that have reliably transpired over the years.
Last week, ICE launched an operation dubbed “Catch of the Day,” resulting in about 50 arrests on its first day, targeting around 1,400 individuals within the largely rural state of Maine, which has a total population of 1.4 million, approximately 4% of whom are foreign-born.
Collins’ announcement comes just days after Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that some arrests included individuals with serious criminal histories, such as aggravated assault and endangerment of a child.
As elections loom, Collins is expected to face Democratic Governor Janet Mills, who has asserted the need for immigration authorities to provide valid warrants and detailed data about those detained. Governor Mills has also challenged the state’s ICE operations, emphasizing accountability and transparency.
The Governor’s office did not comment immediately following Collins' announcement. Collins has historically sought to avoid direct criticism of ICE, advocating instead for policy improvements such as body cameras for ICE personnel to foster trust within communities.
