Joco Today

On August 19, the Democratic Caucus of the Kansas House of Representatives and Senate sent a letter to U.S. Senators Roger Marshall and Jerry Moran, both Republicans from Kansas, criticizing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The letter accused DHS of being "bloated and reckless" and engaging in "unprofessional behavior" during efforts to apprehend illegal immigrants in Kansas communities.

Senator Roger Marshall’s office responded by contacting DHS officials to verify details about the enforcement actions referenced in the Democrats’ letter.

“Our federal law enforcement officials have safely and legally removed dozens of illegal immigrants from our communities,” said Senator Marshall. “President Trump promised to make America safe again, and he is delivering on that promise. For Democrats to make unfounded and false accusations against our hardworking law enforcement officials is not only unprofessional but also against the American people’s goal of closing our borders and keeping communities safe from illegal and dangerous criminals.”

According to Senator Marshall’s office, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted targeted operations in Johnson and Wyandotte Counties on July 30, 2025. The senator's statement asserts these actions were legal.

Mark Zito, Special Agent in Charge for HSI Kansas City, addressed concerns about public safety related to these operations. “Our agents were executing a lawful and targeted operation. When agitators spread false narratives or interfere with law enforcement, it undermines public safety and puts both the community and law enforcement personnel at risk,” said Zito. “Make no mistake: individuals who violate federal immigration law by being unlawfully present in the United States may be subject to detention and removal proceedings under the law. And let me be clear, assaults on officers have surged dramatically, and anyone who dares to obstruct, assault, or interfere with federal agents will face immediate consequences, including arrest and prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.”

The dispute reflects ongoing debates over immigration policy enforcement practices within Kansas.