Clark County Council Debates Resolution on ICE Enforcement

Packed hearing room as council weighs statement on immigration crackdowns

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Clark County Council held a heated debate on whether to release a resolution condemning U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities, with supporters and opponents of federal immigration enforcement filling the council chambers. This was the second meeting in as many weeks on the issue, as the council worked to finalize the exact language of the proposed statement.

Why it matters

The debate over ICE enforcement and local government's role in immigration policy has become a divisive issue, with strong feelings on both sides. The council's decision on this resolution could have significant implications for the community's relationship with federal immigration authorities.

The details

Those supporting federal immigration enforcement argued that protesters need to stay out of the way of ICE agents and that deporting undocumented immigrants remains a priority. Washougal resident Mike Johnson said the council resolution was "100 percent politically motivated" and intended to "instill fear rather than dispel it."

  • The Clark County Council held the debate on February 11, 2026.
  • This was the second meeting in as many weeks on the issue.

The players

Clark County Council

The governing body of Clark County, Washington that was debating a resolution on ICE enforcement.

Mike Johnson

A Washougal resident who spoke out against the council's proposed resolution, calling it politically motivated.

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What they’re saying

“The council resolution was 100 percent politically motivated and crafted to instill fear rather than dispel it.”

— Mike Johnson, Washougal resident (columbian.com)

What’s next

The Clark County Council is expected to vote on the final wording of the resolution condemning ICE enforcement at their next meeting.

The takeaway

The debate over the role of local government in federal immigration enforcement continues to be a divisive and politically charged issue, with strong feelings on both sides of the argument.