Kathmandu— Democrats gathered for their summer meeting in Austin, Texas, and passed opposing resolutions concerning U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), reflecting widespread disapproval of President Donald Trump’s immigration policies but also exposing a rift within the party regarding how to address them. The Democratic National Committee approved both a measure calling for ICE's abolition and another advocating for significant reforms to the agency, acknowledging differing viewpoints on a key issue as they approach the upcoming midterm elections. While the vote is non-binding, it underscores the internal debate and allows candidates to define their own positions.

Abolition vs. Reform Debate

The push to abolish ICE gained momentum in 2018 during Trump’s first term and has resurfaced recently following two fatal shootings involving the agency in July. Michele Johnson, a DNC member from Louisiana who proposed the abolition measure, argued that Democrats need to take a firm stance on the issue. She pointed to the dissolution of ICE's predecessor, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, as a historical precedent, stating, “I think one of the reasons why people are not trusting the party is because we sound so academic…we’re worried about saying the wrong thing or doing the wrong thing and not just like, just stand on business.”

Concerns Over Political Fallout

However, not all DNC members supported abolishing ICE. Yvonne Reeves-Chong voted against the measure, expressing concern that it would alienate certain voters and limit the party’s appeal. “I would strongly suggest we get to the business of winning races so we can make the policies that make a difference,” she said, emphasizing the importance of electability. The debate highlights the challenge Democrats face in balancing progressive ideals with pragmatic political considerations.

Unifying Opposition to Current Policies

Despite differing views on abolishing or reforming ICE, DNC Chairman Ken Martin emphasized a shared disapproval of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Speaking about recent fatal shootings involving ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Martin stated that Democrats are united in their belief that “what ICE is doing right now — and CBP and the federal government — should stop.” He added, “There has to be a better way.”

Public Opinion on Trump's Immigration Policies

Recent polling data indicates that immigration remains a prominent issue for President Trump, even surpassing concerns about the economy or foreign policy. However, an AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll released this month revealed only 39% of U.S. adults approve of his handling of immigration, down from 49% at the beginning of his second term. This decline in approval suggests growing dissatisfaction with the administration’s approach to immigration.

The resolutions passed by the DNC do not bind future policy decisions, which will be finalized at the 2028 convention, but they signal a continuing internal discussion within the party about the best path forward on immigration.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.