Great Lakes Wire

Aric Nesbitt, a Senator from Michigan, has expressed concerns over the public criticism directed at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol. He said that such criticism endangers federal law enforcement officers and urged for support and prayers for their safety. This statement was made on the social media platform X.

"Unacceptable," said Aric Young Nesbitt, State Senator for Michigan. "The irresponsible anti ICE and Border Patrol rhetoric from the left is putting our law enforcement in danger. Praying for the safety of all those in federal law enforcement working to keep America SAFE."

In recent years, there has been an increase in threats and attacks against ICE and Border Patrol agents. According to The Daily Beast, this rise coincides with heated political rhetoric and protests. Federal authorities have reported a significant increase in assaults, prompting calls for greater protection of agents. Recent incidents include ambush-style attacks and heightened hostility at detention centers and border sites.

According to the Associated Press, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reported that assaults on U.S. law enforcement officers reached a decade high in 2023, with over 79,000 incidents. This includes 466 firearm-related injuries, more than doubling the rate of weapon assaults since 2014, highlighting growing dangers for federal officers.

Reports from Gallup and PBS indicate that public approval for ICE and Border Patrol has declined. Currently, 54% of Americans disapprove of increased ICE raids, while 59% oppose expanded Border Patrol staffing. These figures reflect rising criticism and shifting attitudes toward federal immigration enforcement.

Nesbitt is a Republican who has served in the Michigan Senate since 2019, representing the 26th District. According to Michigan Advance, he is known for advocating stronger law enforcement and border security measures. He supports sanctuary city bans and backs bipartisan police reforms.