Letters to the Editor Raise Questions About Laws, Enforcement, and Trump's Heroes

Readers debate the roles of ICE, CBP, and the Department of Homeland Security, and whether Trump's political allies reflect concerning ideologies.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Several letters to the editor published in the Cobleskill Times-Journal discuss concerns about the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which the writers argue are not true law enforcement agencies but rather reflect troubling ideologies of white supremacy and authoritarianism. The letters also question whether supporters of former President Trump, such as Kristi Noem and Tom Homan, could be considered his 'heroes' given the writers' perceptions of their beliefs and actions. One letter explores the concept of customary international law and its role in addressing human rights violations.

Why it matters

These letters highlight ongoing debates about immigration enforcement, the role of federal agencies, and the ideological leanings of political figures. They touch on broader issues of civil liberties, human rights, and the health of democratic institutions in the United States.

The details

The letters criticize ICE and CBP as being driven by 'discredited eugenics theories, bigotry, hate, and want of power' rather than legitimate law enforcement, with the goal of 'White Supremacy.' The writers argue these agencies should be abolished. One letter questions whether supporters of former President Trump, such as Kristi Noem and Tom Homan, could be considered his 'heroes' given the writers' perceptions of their beliefs and actions. Another letter explores the concept of customary international law and its role in addressing human rights violations, using the Nuremberg trials as an example.

  • The letters were published on February 19, 2026.

The players

Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE)

A federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for enforcing immigration laws in the United States.

US Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

A federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations, including immigration laws.

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States, whose political allies and ideological leanings are questioned in the letters.

Kristi Noem

The current Governor of South Dakota, who is cited as one of Trump's political allies.

Tom Homan

A former acting director of ICE, who is cited as one of Trump's political allies.

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What they’re saying

“ICE and CPB are not law enforcement. They are a manifestation of the ugly KKK history we have not outgrown.”

— Wayne R Stinson, Summit (tapinto.net)

“Given what we are witnessing, is it time to question, 'Did I make a mistake when choosing him? Am I able to acknowledge that it is time to withdraw my commitment to ICE, the racism, and political control of the Department of Justice?'”

— Tom Bowes, Richmondville (tapinto.net)

“Customary law, part of international law, specifically addresses that, unlike a treaty which only binds those who sign it, customary law binds all nations, all people.”

— Elliott Adams, Veterans for Peace past president, Creating a Culture of Peace, Board member, Meta Peace Team, Core member (tapinto.net)

The takeaway

These letters highlight ongoing debates about the role of federal immigration enforcement agencies, the ideological leanings of political figures, and the application of international human rights law. They raise important questions about civil liberties, democratic institutions, and the treatment of marginalized communities in the United States.