ICE Accuses Everett Mayor of Escalating Immigration Tensions

UPDATE: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has just accused Everett, Washington, Mayor Cassie Franklin of escalating tensions by restricting federal immigration enforcement within the city. The directive issued this week limits ICE agents’ access to non-public areas in city buildings without a judicial warrant, raising alarms among federal authorities.

Franklin’s directive aims to create citywide protocols that protect community members from what she describes as “real fear” caused by federal immigration activities. During a city council meeting, she stated, “It’s been heartbreaking to see the racial profiling that’s having an impact on Everett families and businesses.” Her comments underscore the emotional toll that immigration enforcement is having on residents, many of whom are reportedly too afraid to leave their homes.

ICE responded vehemently, claiming Franklin’s actions are “dangerous” and “escalate tension” between local and federal authorities. In a statement on social media platform X, they argued that the mayor’s directive directs city law enforcement to “intervene with ICE operations at their own discretion,” thereby “putting everyone at greater risk.” They further stated that Franklin’s approach undermines efforts to protect the community from criminal illegal aliens.

The mayor’s directive covers four main areas:
1. Restricting federal immigration agents from accessing non-public areas of city buildings without a warrant.
2. Immediate reporting of enforcement activity on city property.
3. Clear signage enforcing access limits.
4. An internal policy review and staff training.

Franklin emphasized that the goal of her directive is to ensure that everyone in Everett feels safe. “We want everyone in the city of Everett to feel safe calling 911 when they need help,” she said, asserting that police will not inquire about immigration status.

The controversy highlights a growing divide between local leaders advocating for immigrant rights and federal agencies focused on enforcement. ICE criticized the mayor’s actions, stating, “Working AGAINST ICE forces federal teams into the community searching for criminal illegal aliens released from local jails — INCREASING THE FEDERAL PRESENCE.”

As tensions rise, the implications of Franklin’s directive remain uncertain. It reflects a broader movement among several U.S. cities seeking to protect immigrant communities amid heightened federal enforcement actions. The mayor has pledged to expand partnerships with community leaders and provide resources that promote immigrant-owned businesses.

Residents of Everett are closely watching how this directive will affect their daily lives, as fears of immigration enforcement loom large. The situation is developing, and further responses from both city officials and federal authorities are expected in the coming days.

For those interested in staying updated on this developing story, Fox News Digital has reached out to both Mayor Franklin’s office and ICE for additional comments. Stay with us for further updates on this urgent issue impacting numerous families across the nation.