Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Todd Lyons on Sunday pointed to escalating political rhetoric from elected officials as a driving force behind a dramatic rise in assaults on ICE agents.
Speaking on CBS’s Face the Nation, Lyons said the hostile climate stems largely from public criticism of ICE’s mission by opponents of President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda.
“I think the sharp increase in the rhetoric—especially from a lot of elected officials who are shaming or speaking out against ICE’s law enforcement role—is directly contributing to these attacks on our officers,” Lyons said.
He cited an alarming 830% spike in assaults on ICE agents compared to 2024.
Lyons also linked the surge in violence to the growing visibility of ICE officers in communities across the country, as the Trump administration ramps up its deportation efforts.
“The immigration mission is at the forefront of this administration, so it’s drawing more scrutiny and public attention,” he noted.
Amid growing concerns, ICE has confirmed that agents are not exclusively arresting undocumented immigrants with criminal convictions. Many individuals without prior records are being detained as “collateral arrests” during broader operations targeting high-priority offenders. Still, Lyons stressed that ICE “targets the worst of the worst.”
ICE agents themselves are also speaking out about the emotional toll of their work in the current climate.
In a recent interview with Lara Trump on Fox News’ My View, officer Kristian Moreno said the hostility agents face is deeply personal.
“It’s been really sad to see how we’re villainized,” Moreno said. “Just doing this interview, I had to sit down with my family and explain why I’m doing it—because I believe it’s important for people to know we’re human. We’re not making the law; we’re just enforcing it.”
Officers Edgardo Centeno and Chris Sandoval echoed that sentiment, describing the emotional weight of serving a divided nation.
“We took an oath to defend the Constitution and enforce the law,” said Centeno, a combat veteran. “But it breaks my heart to see the country so divided. We’re adjusting to what’s happening, but it’s difficult.”
Despite mounting challenges, ICE leadership and frontline agents insist they remain committed to carrying out their duties—regardless of public pressure.
