In the wake of the recent activity by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in Athens, Athens area media reached out to Congressman Andrew Clyde’s office for a response.
He issued a statement to WUGA News regarding their actions saying, “The brave men and women of ICE are American heroes who deserve our full support, appreciation, and respect. ICE agents are welcome in Athens—and every Georgia community for that matter—as they work tirelessly to protect American citizens and prevent tragedies, like the brutal murder of Laken Riley, from ever happening again.”
ICE officers have been seen in Athens for the past few days. According to the Athens Immigrant Rights Coalition (AIRC), they have detained multiple individuals, including four members of one family, leaving an 11-year-old girl without her parents.
AIRC is one of the area organizations collecting donations to assist families impacted by the arrests.
Election opponent wants to abolish ICE
Clyde, of Athens, is running for reelection against Gwinnett County community organizer Caitlyn Gegen, a progressive Democrat who supports abolishing the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency.
Laying out her platform ahead of the Democratic primary, Gegen said she supports abolishing ICE, arguing its responsibilities could be handled by other federal agencies.
“I don’t believe ICE serves a unique purpose,” she said.
Gegen said eliminating the agency would help build trust with immigrant communities.
“We need to make sure people feel safe and welcomed,” she said.
Alexia Ridley of WUGA News contributed to this report
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