Newsom Faces Backlash After Softening Stance on ICE in Interview

California Governor Gavin Newsom has come under significant scrutiny after an interview with conservative commentator Ben Shapiro in which he moderated his previous criticism of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. This shift has sparked outrage among critics who believe he has weakened his stance against an agency facing increasing allegations of misconduct and violence.

The controversy intensified following the recent fatal shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. On January 7, 2023, Newsom’s press office characterized the shooting as “state-sponsored terrorism.” Witnesses reported that the agent, Jonathan Ross, shot Good in the head after stepping in front of her vehicle, and it was alleged that emergency services were obstructed from reaching her.

In the interview aired on Shapiro’s podcast, Newsom appeared to retract his earlier characterization of ICE. When Shapiro questioned him about the term “state-sponsored terrorism,” Newsom acknowledged the concerns but seemed to align with Shapiro’s assertion that ICE officers are not terrorists.

This exchange has ignited criticism on social media, with many questioning why a prominent Democratic figure would allow a right-wing host to dictate the narrative. Mehdi Hasan, founder of the news outlet Zeteo, remarked on the potential damage to Newsom’s prospects for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination by engaging in what he described as a self-destructive dialogue.

Throughout the nearly two-hour interview, Newsom maintained a cooperative stance towards ICE. He claimed that California had cooperated with over 10,000 deportations since he took office. This admission drew ire from advocates who argue that the state’s so-called sanctuary policies still facilitate deportations of individuals who have not been convicted of crimes.

Shapiro pressed Newsom on California’s sanctuary policies, suggesting that the state should collaborate more with ICE. Newsom responded affirmatively, asserting that his administration has indeed cooperated with ICE more than any other state. He also noted that he vetoed multiple legislative efforts aimed at curtailing ICE’s influence in California.

Despite calls from some Democratic lawmakers, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, to abolish ICE following Good’s death, Newsom firmly rejected this notion, citing the importance of the agency. He referenced former Vice President Kamala Harris, indicating that she had previously expressed similar views. However, critics pointed out that Harris has never called for the abolition of ICE and has supported reforming its enforcement priorities instead.

Recent polling by Economist/YouGov indicates a notable shift in public opinion, with 46% of American adults now supporting the abolition of ICE, surpassing the 43% who oppose it. Among Democrats, the support rises to 80%. This data reflects a growing discontent with ICE, particularly in light of its actions that many perceive as overly aggressive and racially discriminatory.

Political analysts and commentators have expressed concern over Newsom’s approach. Brian Tashman of the ACLU remarked that Newsom’s reluctance to challenge Shapiro’s framing highlights his unwillingness to confront right-wing narratives while being more adversarial towards progressive movements.

Critics are particularly worried that such a stance could hinder Newsom’s chances in a potential presidential run in 2028. As the political climate continues to evolve, many are watching closely to see how Newsom navigates this contentious issue and whether he will align more closely with the emerging sentiments within his party and the broader electorate.