Former Cleveland Congressman Speaks at Frigid ICE Protest

Dennis Kucinich calls to 'abolish ICE' and urges support for immigrant and Haitian communities.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Former Cleveland mayor and longtime politician Dennis Kucinich addressed a determined crowd of bundled demonstrators on Saturday during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protest across the street from the West Side Market in Cleveland. Despite arctic temperatures, the protesters gathered to protest federal immigration enforcement and show support for immigrant communities.

Why it matters

Kucinich, who served 16 years in Congress representing Cleveland and previously served as the city's mayor, has long aligned himself with progressive causes, including opposition to aggressive immigration enforcement and support for immigrant rights. His appearance at the protest highlights the ongoing debate around ICE and immigration policies.

The details

In a short video captured on social media, Kucinich can be heard telling the crowd, 'We aren't going to abolish our Constitution, we will abolish ICE,' drawing cheers from the demonstrators. He also thanked the attendees for turning out in the freezing weather and encouraged them to 'keep the faith' and 'keep going strong,' while urging supporters to stand up for 'our Haitian brothers and sisters.'

  • The protest took place on Saturday afternoon.

The players

Dennis Kucinich

A former Cleveland mayor and longtime politician who served 16 years in Congress representing Cleveland. He has long aligned himself with progressive causes, including opposition to aggressive immigration enforcement and support for immigrant rights.

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What they’re saying

“We aren't going to abolish our Constitution, we will abolish ICE.”

— Dennis Kucinich, Former Congressman (cleveland.com)

The takeaway

Kucinich's appearance at the frigid ICE protest in Cleveland underscores the ongoing debate around immigration enforcement and the role of organizations like ICE. His call to 'abolish ICE' reflects the views of many progressive activists, while his support for immigrant and Haitian communities highlights the human impact of these policies.