The Democratic National Committee approved two resolutions during its summer meeting in Austin, Texas, including one calling for the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and another supporting the Leahy Laws, which restrict U.S. funding to nations committing human rights violations.
The ICE-related resolution, introduced by DNC member Michele Johnson of Louisiana, marks a shift from prior positions that had called only for reforms. The Leahy Laws resolution was also advanced, reinforcing the party’s stance on human rights accountability. Both measures passed the DNC’s Resolutions Committee, though they do not formally dictate party policy or the platform.
Key Developments
- The DNC greenlit a resolution endorsing the abolition of ICE, a stance previously considered fringe within the party. Past resolutions had focused on reforming the agency rather than eliminating it.
- The committee also passed a resolution supporting the Leahy Laws, which prohibit U.S. funding to foreign governments implicated in human rights abuses.
- The ICE resolution passed on a 25-12 vote, with some members noting alignment with state Democratic priorities.
Rationale and Perspectives
DNC member Michele Johnson, who sponsored both resolutions, cited incidents in Minneapolis and other cities as influencing her shift toward abolition. “Over the course of last year I began moving away from reform to abolition,” Johnson stated. “This is a rogue agency, they are killing people, they are killing U.S. citizens.”
Some DNC members, including Texas committeeman Jeff Strater, acknowledged prior support for ICE reforms but emphasized alignment with their state party’s stance. Strater noted, “I am fully aware that this body has passed resolutions reforming ICE, I voted for them. But I’m also here today to vote in alignment with my state Democratic Party.”
Policy Context and Implications
The resolutions reflect broader debates within the Democratic Party about immigration enforcement and human rights. The Leahy Laws resolution aligns with existing U.S. policy, which already restricts military aid to countries with documented human rights violations. The ICE abolition resolution, however, represents a more radical departure from prior Democratic positions.
The DNC’s actions come amid ongoing discussions about immigration policy, including state-level restrictions on cooperation with federal enforcement agencies. Some states with Democratic leadership have passed laws limiting local law enforcement’s involvement in ICE programs, such as the 287(g) program, which allows trained officers to assist in identifying undocumented immigrants.
Next Steps
While the resolutions do not immediately change federal policy, they signal potential shifts in the party’s priorities. The DNC’s decisions may influence future legislative efforts or platform discussions ahead of the 2028 presidential primary. The resolutions also underscore the growing influence of progressive factions within the party on immigration and human rights issues.