Kristi Noem's ICE Raises Concerns About Government Overreach

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In his column, George F. Will argues that the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the leadership of former South Dakota governor Kristi Noem are emblematic of a broader erosion of public trust in government. Will cites examples of ICE agents using excessive force and making dubious claims about suspects, as well as Noem's own history of making false statements. He warns that without oversight, ICE's 'rampages' will continue, further damaging the relationship between citizens and their government.

Why it matters

The public's trust in government institutions is a critical component of a healthy democracy. Will's column suggests that the behavior of ICE under Noem's leadership is contributing to a breakdown in that trust, with concerning implications for the country's political and social fabric.

The details

Will cites several examples to support his argument, including the use of excessive force by ICE agents in Minneapolis and the agency's tendency to make dubious claims about suspects. He also notes Noem's own history of making false statements, such as her claim about meeting with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, which she later acknowledged was untrue. Will warns that without congressional oversight, ICE's 'rampages' will continue, further eroding the public's trust in government.

• In July 2017, President Donald Trump urged police to 'don't be too nice' to suspects taken into custody.
• In May 1963, photos and videos of Birmingham, Alabama commissioner of public safety Theophilus Eugene 'Bull' Connor using body-slamming fire hoses and snarling dogs against young Black civil rights demonstrators shocked the nation.