Full Breakdown
Protests Erupt Over ICE Funding at Senator Susan Collins' Office
1/29/2026, 4:33:16 AM
Arrests During Protest Against ICE Operations
On Tuesday afternoon, nine individuals were arrested during a protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at Senator Susan Collins' office in Portland, Maine. The Portland Police Department reported that approximately 50 protesters occupied the eighth floor of One Canal Plaza, where Collins' office is located. Despite multiple warnings to disperse, nine protesters chose to remain and requested arrest. The ages of those arrested ranged from 31 to 65, and they engaged in a "pray-in" event, singing "We Shall Overcome" and calling for Collins to end funding for ICE.
Background on Collins' Position and Recent ICE Operations
Senator Susan Collins, a Republican and the only GOP member of Maine's congressional delegation, has been under scrutiny for her support of a Homeland Security funding bill that includes allocations for ICE. Recently, Collins requested that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem pause ICE operations in Maine, which resulted in over 200 arrests in a week. Collins expressed concerns that these operations were "too sweeping and indiscriminate," advocating for a more targeted approach focused on individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement, Collins emphasized that the majority of the funding in the DHS bill does not go to immigration enforcement, noting that less than 20% of the bill's budget is allocated for ICE. She stated, “The funding that is supporting the current ICE operations... mostly comes from the Big, Beautiful Bill, which I voted against.” Collins has also called for an independent investigation into ICE's operations in Maine, highlighting the need for a review of the agency's focus.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Collins, including Democratic Governor Janet Mills, have intensified their rhetoric regarding her stance on ICE funding. Mills accused Collins of lacking the courage to hold ICE accountable, stating, “You are the chair of the committee that funds the government. Hold them accountable.” Protesters, including faith leaders, argued that ICE's actions have instilled fear within immigrant communities, contradicting the welcoming image the U.S. aims to project.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Collins has defended the DHS funding bill, the specifics of the funding allocations remain a point of contention. The bill allocates $10 billion for ICE, which constitutes 15% of the total budget, while $18 billion is designated for Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Critics argue that this funding supports aggressive enforcement actions that disproportionately affect immigrant communities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They left their country out of fear and came here to make an asylum claim,” — Christine Dyke, Lead Minister, Gorham First Parish Congregational Church
- “I believe they should be reviewed and far more targeted in their scope,” Collins said in a written statement.” — Senator Susan Collins
- “Mills posted on X on Monday, “You don't have the courage do anything about it as ICE invades our state.” — Governor Janet Mills
The ongoing debate surrounding ICE funding and operations in Maine continues to evoke strong reactions from both supporters and opponents, highlighting the complexities of immigration policy and its impact on local communities.
