NewsCBS News PoliticsJanuary 29, 2026United States
Democrats Focus on Immigration and ICE Reform Ahead of Midterms
Democratic candidates are increasingly centering their midterm campaigns on immigration policy and criticism of ICE enforcement, following recent fatal shootings in Minneapolis. The strategy aims to mobilize voters by challenging current deportation operations and calling for agency reform or abolition.
Read the full story at CBS News PoliticsWhy It Matters
The shift in campaign focus could influence the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives, where Democrats need a net gain of three seats to take control in the November elections.
Key Facts
- Democrats need a net gain of three seats in the House to take control from Republicans in the November elections.
- Two individuals, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, were fatally shot in Minneapolis this month during encounters with ICE and CBP agents.
- Brian Varela is seeking the Democratic nomination in New Jersey's 7th District and will be endorsed by the Latino Victory Fund.
- A Fox News poll indicates 59% of voters believe ICE has been 'too aggressive,' an increase of 10 points since July.
- 55% of voters disapprove of the president's overall performance on immigration.
- Democratic candidates are proposing various approaches to immigration enforcement, ranging from reform to the total abolition of ICE.
- Some Democrats are backing a resolution to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
- Republicans currently hold a five-seat majority in the House of Representatives.
Who's Mentioned
personMonica De La Cruz“Incumbent Republican Representative for Texas' 15th District.”personIlhan Omar“Representative from Minnesota.”personEd Markey“Senator from Massachusetts.”personStephen Miller“White House deputy chief of staff and homeland security adviser.”personBobby Pulido“Democratic candidate for Texas' 15th Congressional District.”personKristi Noem“Homeland Security Secretary.”personJasmine Crockett“Texas Representative running in the Senate Democratic primary.”personMaria Salazar“Republican Representative from Florida.”personIleana Garcia“Republican Florida state Senator.”organizationLatino Victory Fund“Progressive organization endorsing Brian Varela.”personBrian Varela“Democratic candidate for New Jersey's 7th Congressional District.”personMike Marinella“NRCC spokesperson.”personTim Walz“Governor of Minnesota.”personTom Kean Jr.“Incumbent Republican Representative for New Jersey's 7th District.”personJames Talarico“State Representative running in the Senate Democratic primary.”