ICE Agent Shoves Congressional Candidate During Protest

Viral video of confrontation sparks debate over use of force and treatment of detainees

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A confrontation between an ICE agent and congressional candidate Kat Abughazelah at a Chicago processing facility has gone viral, with a significant portion of online commenters defending the federal officer's actions despite allegations of excessive force. The incident highlights the escalating tensions between immigration activists and law enforcement during a politically sensitive period.

Why it matters

The video raises concerns about the treatment of detainees and the use of force by federal agents, especially against political candidates advocating for reform. It also reflects the broader polarization around immigration issues and the challenges facing activists seeking to bring attention to alleged mistreatment within the system.

The details

The video shows an ICE agent in tactical gear shoving Abughazelah to the ground after she moved to check on a fellow protester. Abughazelah claims this was the third time she has been thrown to the ground by ICE agents at the Broadview Processing Centre, where she alleges detainees are being held for extended periods without basic amenities. While some commenters defended the agent's actions, Abughazelah and her supporters argue the footage demonstrates excessive force and the need for greater oversight of immigration enforcement.

  • The incident occurred in September 2025 during a protest outside the Broadview Processing Centre in Chicago.
  • Abughazelah revealed this was the third time ICE agents had thrown her to the ground at the facility.

The players

Kat Abughazelah

A prominent Palestinian-American journalist and social media influencer currently seeking a seat in the United States House of Representatives as a Democratic candidate for Illinois' Ninth District. She has been a vocal opponent of current immigration enforcement tactics and has participated in direct-action protests at the Broadview Processing Centre.

ICE Agent

A federal immigration enforcement officer who shoved Abughazelah to the ground during a protest at the Broadview Processing Centre.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When they tell you to move, you may want to move before they move you.”

— John Alessandrini (Facebook)

“This is actually the third time that ICE has thrown me to the ground.”

— Kat Abughazelah, Congressional Candidate (Democracy Now!)

What’s next

Abughazelah's campaign continues to monitor the Broadview facility and advocate for reform, while the incident has sparked renewed scrutiny of immigration enforcement tactics and the treatment of detainees.

The takeaway

The confrontation between the ICE agent and congressional candidate Abughazelah highlights the escalating tensions between immigration activists and federal law enforcement, as well as the challenges facing those seeking to bring attention to alleged mistreatment within the immigration system.