Trump Administration Escalates ICE Arrests of Families and Asylum Seekers, Focuses on Florida Youth Amid Rep. Jayapal Hearing

The Trump administration has intensified immigration enforcement actions, focusing on arresting a broad range of immigrants, including families, asylum seekers, and individuals without criminal records. Contrary to earlier promises to target only the "worst of the worst," Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has increased arrests at immigration courthouses and during routine check-ins, detaining immigrants who are attempting to comply with legal processes. This escalation has raised concerns among lawmakers and immigrant rights advocates about the erosion of due process and the weaponization of the immigration adjudication system. A shadow hearing hosted by Representative Pramila Jayapal featured testimony from legal experts and advocates highlighting these enforcement tactics, which include fast-track deportations without hearings and ambushes at courthouses. The Vera Institute of Justice described these actions as designed to spread fear and chaos within immigrant communities. Reports also indicate a focus on deporting vulnerable children and young migrants in Florida. The increased use of detention and aggressive enforcement measures have led to family separations and heightened distress among immigrant communities.