Two Democrats Propose Act Targeting ICE Officers

Senator Cory Booker listens to Emil Bove

Masked and plainclothes Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have reportedly appeared more frequently during immigration enforcement efforts. Democratic lawmakers have questioned whether the practices comply with identification and uniform standards. Senators have requested that ICE clarify recent operational changes and address related public safety concerns.

The VISIBLE Act, introduced by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), seeks to require ICE and other DHS officers to wear clearly visible identification during operations. It addresses concerns about unmarked tactical gear and face coverings that obscure agent identities. The bill also prohibits non-medical face coverings, except in specific cases.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem speaks at the expo

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented procedures to enforce compliance amid rising hostility toward agents. Assaults on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel have reportedly surged by 500 percent, fueling concerns over agent safety.

California Senator Alex Padilla speaks at DNC

Padilla (D-CA) said, “When federal immigration agents show up and pull someone off the street in plainclothes with their face obscured and no visible identification, it only escalates tensions and spreads fear while shielding federal agents from basic accountability.”

Sen. Alex Padilla at the Democratic National Convention

Padilla added, “This isn't security -- it's intimidation. And it has no place in our communities.”

ICE agents apprehend a migrant in Virginia

ICE official Scott Shuchart endorsed the legislation, calling current enforcement practices un-American. Despite likely resistance in the Republican-led House, the bill comes amid ongoing Democratic efforts to overhaul immigration enforcement policies.

ICE apprehends Salvadoran man with criminal record

Shuchart said, “The masked bandit is a symbol of fear, and having government agents dressed like paramilitaries is un-American.”

Newark Mayor Cory Booker speaks at DNC

Booker said, “The lack of visible identification and uniform standards for immigration enforcement officers has created confusion, stoked fear, and undermined public trust in law enforcement.”

Cory Booker tours Valley Hospital in New Jersey

The proposed requirement for visible names and badge numbers on immigration officers’ uniforms has aimed to boost transparency. It also seeks to rebuild public trust in enforcement practices.

Grace Hall covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.