States prep for ICE agents to be at polls, just in case

As the Trump administration has hinted about deploying ICE agents to election polling places this fall, states across the US are preparing contingency plans to counter any actions that could impact voters. While it is illegal for federal law enforcement to be present at polling places, President Trump stated in May that he would "do anything necessary" to ensure honest elections.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has indicated that ICE agents could be at polling places if they are serving an immigration warrant. New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver told Axios that her office is preparing for the possibility of ICE agents disrupting voting or ballot drop box operations, following similar protocols used for other unauthorized individuals at the polls.

Michigan's deputy secretary of state, Aghogho Edevbie, emphasized that ICE agents near polling locations would be considered voter intimidation and would face immediate countermeasures. Toulouse Oliver stated that her office is training local election officials to ask any officers to leave the voting area, with further action including legal steps if necessary.

Similar protocols are being followed in other states, with secretaries of state, clerks, and attorneys general coordinating closely to address any potential disruptions. Despite ICE's recent statements that agents will only be present if making a targeted arrest, election officials remain cautious, acknowledging the possibility of voter intimidation.

While some officials argue that ICE's actions may not be appropriate, others stress that America's elections are not a sanctuary from federal criminal law.