ICE Denies Democrats Access to Detention Facilities During Government Shutdown

Democratic members of Congress in San Diego have been repeatedly denied access to inspect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities, particularly the basement holding areas at the federal courthouse, amid allegations of poor conditions for detainees. ICE officials have cited the ongoing federal government shutdown and resulting resource constraints as reasons for restricting visits, claiming they lack staff and funding to facilitate congressional oversight. This stance is part of a broader legal dispute, with Democrats suing ICE over access rights, arguing that the shutdown has been used to circumvent a previously applicable law requiring on-demand visits by lawmakers. ICE and the Department of Homeland Security have defended their position, stating that the appropriations rider mandating congressional visits expired with the shutdown, and have criticized Democrats for the government funding lapse. Congressional Democrats remain firm in their oversight role, expressing concern over detainee welfare and accusing ICE of stonewalling and potentially violating the law by denying access. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between congressional oversight efforts and ICE operations, exacerbated by the prolonged government shutdown.