Advanced ICE Operations Suspended in Maine, But Aftermath Remains

Senator Susan Collins announces end to controversial immigration enforcement surge, but protests and school absences continue

Jan. 30, 2026 at 7:39am

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After more than a week of heightened U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Maine that resulted in over 200 arrests, Senator Susan Collins announced the agency will be suspending its targeted 'Catch of the Day' operation. However, ICE agents will still maintain a presence in the state, and the aftermath of the crackdown is expected to last for months, with ongoing protests, business strikes, and school absences as the community grapples with the impact.

Why it matters

The increased ICE activity in Maine sparked widespread fear and anxiety among immigrant communities, leading to a surge in school absences and business closures as families went into hiding. The situation highlighted the disruptive effects of aggressive immigration enforcement on local communities, even after the operations have ended.

The details

According to the Department of Homeland Security, the recent ICE operation in Maine resulted in 206 arrests last week alone, with a total of 1,400 targets. While Senator Collins announced the 'Catch of the Day' operation has been suspended, ICE agents will still maintain a presence in the state. On Friday, many local businesses plan to participate in a nationwide strike to protest the Trump administration's immigration enforcement efforts, and some schools have also organized walkouts or skip days in protest.

  • The heightened ICE operations in Maine have been ongoing for more than a week.
  • On Thursday, January 29, 2026, Senator Susan Collins announced the 'Catch of the Day' operation would be suspended.
  • On Friday, January 30, 2026, many area businesses will participate in a nationwide strike to protest the Trump administration's immigration enforcement.

The players

Senator Susan Collins

The senior U.S. Senator from Maine who announced the suspension of the 'Catch of the Day' ICE operation in the state.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that conducted the heightened immigration enforcement operations in Maine, resulting in over 200 arrests.

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency that oversees ICE and provided details on the scale of the recent operations in Maine.

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What they’re saying

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— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

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The takeaway

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