Story perspectives

Senator Collins Urges DHS to Reconsider End of Controversial Operation

1/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 29, 2026, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has ended 'Operation Catch of the Day'.
The operation began January 20, 2026, and produced over 200 arrests.
Collins said she urged DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to reconsider the operation.
Governor Janet Mills and officials expressed skepticism, calling for transparency, while Portland protests demanded an end to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) tactics.

History

Historical Context

The Secure Fence Act, passed by the U.S. Congress in 2006, authorized barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border to bolster security. This legislation led to over 300,000 deportations that year and intensified immigration enforcement. The recent end of 'Operation Catch of the Day' highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy, as protests against ICE tactics continue to shape the national discourse on civil rights and immigration reform.

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Story summary

On January 29, 2026, U.S. Senator Susan Collins announced that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has ended 'Operation Catch of the Day'.
The operation began January 20, 2026, and produced over 200 arrests.
Collins said she urged DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to reconsider the operation.
Governor Janet Mills and officials expressed skepticism, calling for transparency, while Portland protests demanded an end to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) tactics.

1 / 2