ICE Director Blames Lawmakers' Rhetoric After Officer's Death

The head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is accusing certain progressive members of Congress of creating danger for federal officers. This follows a fatal shooting in Minneapolis. A suspect shot two ICE officers during a routine operation on Thursday. One officer died from his injuries. The suspect was also killed. ICE Acting Director Patrick J. Lechleitner responded strongly. He said "political rhetoric" from some lawmakers has made such attacks more likely. He did not name specific politicians but referenced "Squad" members. This informal group includes several left-wing Democrats in Congress. These lawmakers have often criticized ICE. They have called for major changes to the agency or for its funding to be cut. Lechleitner stated this criticism fuels anger against ICE employees. He said it puts their lives at risk during already dangerous work. The incident is under investigation by local police in Minneapolis.