Dem Rep. Jared Golden Throws Support Behind Maine’s ICE Operations — Says Agency Serves ‘Public Interest’
Democratic Congressman Jared Golden has said he supports Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in the state.
In a break from his colleagues across the Democratic Party, Golden said ICE’s activities ultimately serve the public interest.
“So long as this remains a targeted law enforcement operation focused on individuals who have engaged in criminal activities, then I believe it legitimately serves the public interest,” Golden said in a statement to the Maine Public:
He later followed up in a post on the X platform:
Federal law enforcement agencies have the right and responsibility to enforce federal laws, including immigration laws, and a targeted law enforcement operation focused on individuals who have engaged in criminal activity serves the public interest. It’s also true that for long-term stability and social cohesion, law enforcement requires public trust.
DHS should prioritize its enforcement actions on public safety and must themselves comply with federal laws. Immigrants with legal status should not be targeted, court authorities should be obeyed and due process must be followed.
Free speech and lawful protest are protected rights, but regardless of how anyone feels about immigration policy or ICE’s tactics, people must not obstruct or impede law enforcement activities.
And all of us — including public officials — must resist the urge to amplify tensions or spread unverified reports. That is a recipe for confrontation and escalation that helps no one.
Federal law enforcement agencies have the right and responsibility to enforce federal laws, including immigration laws, and a targeted law enforcement operation focused on individuals who have engaged in criminal activity serves the public interest. It’s also true that for…
— Congressman Jared Golden (@RepGolden) January 22, 2026
Golden was one of seven House Democrats who voted with Republicans on Wednesday to continue funding the Department of Homeland Security.
House Passes Bill to Fund DHS in 220-207 Vote – Seven Democrats Back Measure, Massie Votes Against!
Last November, Golden announced he would not seek re-election after six years in Congress.
In his announcement, Golden cited political violence, polarization, and the “grim milestone” of his own party shutting the government down for the longest period in history as reasons for his stepping down.
“I’m confident that were I to run again, I would win,” he wrote at the time.
”But recent events have made me reconsider whether the good I can do in Congress still outweighs the cost to my family.”
“I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished in decades of public service.”
”Now, I look forward to my next chapter: raising my young daughters with Izzy and spending more time with our family and friends.”
After much deliberation, I’ve decided not to seek reelection in 2026.
I’m confident that were I to run again, I would win. But recent events have made me reconsider whether the good I can do in Congress still outweighs the cost to my family.
I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished…
— Jared Golden for Congress (@golden4congress) November 5, 2025
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