Paul LePage Calls Deportation of Relative “Not Right” Amid Maine Immigration Crackdown

Former Maine governor Paul LePage, a Republican congressional candidate, told reporters that his son’s father-in-law is being deported and described the action as “not right.” He emphasized that the man holds a work permit and should be allowed to stay. “That’s not right. He has a work permit. He should be allowed to stay,” — Maine Gov. Paul LePage

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Maine has seen a surge in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity under the current federal immigration policy. State-wide data compiled by the Deportation Data Project show 482 immigration-related arrests in Maine so far this year. In July, ICE officers fatally shot Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero, a 25-year-old Colombian, during a warrant execution in Biddeford. The shooting, which was not the intended target of the operation, prompted criticism from Sen. Angus King, who told the Associated Press that the incident highlighted concerns about the deployment of federal agents in the state.

The Hill

LePage indicated he would likely refrain from pursuing migrants who have lived in the United States for decades and possess work permits. He argued that enforcement resources should focus on individuals involved in gangs or with criminal records, rather than long-term residents.

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LePage’s remarks were made during a press appearance that was broadcast on WGME-TV in Portland. ICE, when addressing the Guerrero shooting, said the deceased was attempting to flee the scene but did not confirm whether he was the primary target. Sen. King’s comments underscored the backlash in Maine against the broader federal immigration presence. The Deportation Data Project’s arrest figures provide quantitative context for the heightened enforcement environment.

The Hill

• “That’s not right. He has a work permit. He should be allowed to stay,” — Paul LePage, former Maine governor

The Hill