Great Lakes Wire

Aric Nesbitt, Senator of Michigan, said recent comments by Tim Walz comparing ICE agents to Nazi police are inflammatory and pose a danger to federal law enforcement. The statement was made on X.

"Comparing the men and women who are keeping our country safe to Nazi secret police shows why Tim Walz is not Vice President," said Aric Young Nesbitt, State Senator for Michigan. "Rhetoric like this is only meant to incite violence against federal law enforcement and should be condemned."

During a commencement speech at the University of Minnesota Law School, Walz referred to ICE as "Donald Trump’s modern-day Gestapo," prompting strong reactions from federal officials and political opponents. According to FOX 9, the Department of Homeland Security labeled the comments as "dangerous" and "sickening." However, some defended Walz's right to free speech while criticizing federal immigration policies. This incident has reignited national discussions regarding immigration enforcement and political rhetoric.

According to data from the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, assaults on law enforcement officers increased by 11.2% in 2021, with approximately 79,900 incidents reported nationwide. Assaults involving weapons rose by 10.5%, and officer injuries resulting from assaults were up 18.3% compared to the previous year. These statistics highlight the growing threats faced by both federal and local law enforcement personnel in recent years.

A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2019 revealed that 54% of Americans held an unfavorable view of ICE, while 42% viewed the agency favorably. Public perception varied significantly along political lines and was influenced by high-profile immigration enforcement actions. These findings illustrate the polarized views Americans have towards federal law enforcement agencies involved in immigration policy.

Senator Aric Nesbitt serves as the Republican Minority Leader in the Michigan Senate, representing the 20th District since 2023. His official Senate biography notes that he previously served in the Michigan House of Representatives and chaired the House Energy Policy Committee. His legislative interests include tax reform, economic development, and energy infrastructure.