Fact Check: Democrats are engaging in an insurrectionist movement inspiring domestic terrorism against ICE officers.

Fact Check: "Democrats are engaging in an insurrectionist movement inspiring domestic terrorism against ICE officers."

What We Know

The claim that "Democrats are engaging in an insurrectionist movement inspiring domestic terrorism against ICE officers" stems from various statements made by political figures and reports from law enforcement agencies. According to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), there has been a notable increase in assaults against ICE officers, with reports indicating a 413% rise in such incidents. This alarming statistic has been cited by officials to underscore the dangers faced by ICE personnel.

Additionally, some Democratic leaders have made statements that could be interpreted as inciting hostility towards ICE. For example, Rep. Kamlager-Dove referred to the current immigration policy as "domestic terrorism" (Mike Johnson's press release). Furthermore, Stephen Miller, a prominent conservative figure, has characterized the rhetoric from certain Democrats as part of an "insurrectionist movement" that encourages violence against federal officers (Stephen Miller's commentary).

Analysis

While there is evidence of increased violence against ICE officers, the interpretation of this violence as being directly inspired by Democratic rhetoric is contentious. The statements made by some Democrats, while critical of ICE, do not explicitly call for violence or insurrection. For instance, while Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez described ICE as a "rogue agency" (Mike Johnson's press release), this criticism is part of a broader debate about immigration policy rather than a direct incitement to violence.

Moreover, the characterization of protests against ICE as "domestic terrorism" is a politically charged label. The protests have often been framed as responses to the Trump administration's immigration policies, which many view as harsh and inhumane. The Washington Post reported on widespread protests against immigration raids, indicating that these demonstrations were largely peaceful, though some escalated into violence.

The sources used to support the claim about Democrats inspiring domestic terrorism are primarily from conservative outlets and political figures, which may introduce bias. For instance, the rhetoric from Stephen Miller and other conservative commentators tends to frame the actions of Democrats in a negative light, potentially exaggerating the connection between political speech and violent actions.

Conclusion

The claim that "Democrats are engaging in an insurrectionist movement inspiring domestic terrorism against ICE officers" is Partially True. While there is a documented increase in assaults against ICE officers and some Democrats have made incendiary statements regarding ICE, the direct link between these statements and acts of domestic terrorism is not clearly established. The context of these protests and criticisms is rooted in a broader debate over immigration policy, rather than an outright call for violence against federal officers.

Fact Check: Democrats are engaging in an insurrectionist movement inspiring domestic terrorism against ICE officers.