Story perspectives

Trump Administration Faces Backlash Over Misleading ICE Policy Claims

3/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration faced criticism for falsely claiming ICE officers can arrest people inside immigration courts.
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton expressed regret for defending an ICE memo that misrepresented this policy.
A memo later clarified that ICE's arrest policy does not apply to immigration courts, spurring investigations.
Since 2025, thousands have been arrested after hearings, drawing accountability demands from Brad Lander, former New York City comptroller.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration faced criticism for falsely claiming ICE officers can arrest people inside immigration courts.
U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton expressed regret for defending an ICE memo that misrepresented this policy.
A memo later clarified that ICE's arrest policy does not apply to immigration courts, spurring investigations.
Since 2025, thousands have been arrested after hearings, drawing accountability demands from Brad Lander, former New York City comptroller.