Democrats Sue Over ICE Detention Oversight Rules

A dozen Democratic members of Congress have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, ICE, and the Department of Homeland Security, challenging a June policy requiring seven days' notice and restricting access to certain ICE field offices. Lawmakers, including Representatives Veronica Escobar of Texas and Jason Crow of Colorado, claim they were denied entry even when providing more notice than mandated. The plaintiffs argue this policy violates federal law guaranteeing Congress the ability to conduct unannounced oversight visits at detention facilities. They say the policy hinders the exposure of issues such as overcrowding and inadequate conditions. ICE and DHS defend the restrictions as needed for security and operations, but lawmakers argue it undermines transparency and oversight. The lawsuit seeks to restore immediate, unannounced congressional access to all ICE detention sites.