Maryland County Approves Resolution Supporting ICE and DHS

Washington County resolution expresses 'full support' for federal immigration enforcement agencies

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Officials in Washington County, Maryland, have approved a resolution expressing their 'full support' for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and other law enforcement agencies. The resolution encourages ongoing cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law.

Why it matters

This resolution highlights the ongoing political tensions around immigration enforcement, with some local jurisdictions voicing support for federal agencies like ICE while others have sought to limit cooperation. The approval of this resolution comes as the DHS has reportedly purchased a warehouse near Hagerstown, raising concerns from Maryland's governor about the potential economic impact of a new ICE facility in the area.

The details

The Board of County Commissioners of Washington County approved the resolution on Tuesday, stating their intent to support DHS and ICE in enforcing the nation's borders, safeguarding the integrity of the immigration system, and ensuring all persons are treated with dignity. The resolution also encourages continued cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to ensure the welfare and security of all citizens and legal residents.

  • The Board of County Commissioners approved the resolution on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
  • The resolution is effective immediately upon adoption.

The players

Washington County Board of County Commissioners

The governing body of Washington County, Maryland, that approved the resolution expressing support for DHS and ICE.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws and securing the nation's borders.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency under DHS that is responsible for identifying, arresting, and deporting undocumented immigrants.

Wes Moore

The Democratic governor of Maryland who expressed concerns over the DHS's plans to house a new ICE facility in Washington County.

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What they’re saying

“First, federal occupation of the property — originally designed as a commercial distribution site during COVID — presents a significant loss of economic opportunity, not only for western Maryland but for the entire state.”

— Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland (Daily Voice)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This resolution highlights the ongoing political divide over immigration enforcement, with some local jurisdictions voicing support for federal agencies like ICE while others have raised concerns about the economic and social impacts of such policies. The approval of this resolution in Washington County comes as the state's governor has expressed reservations about the DHS's plans to establish a new ICE facility in the area.