In an exit interview with NBC News, current acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director P.J. Lechleitner criticized President Joe Biden for not acting sooner to tighten border security in order to reduce the flow of migrants into the U.S. Lechleitner stated that ICE had to redirect staff to Customs and Border Protection to assist with the influx of migrants, preventing them from adequately carrying out their core mission. He emphasized that other career personnel in the Department of Homeland Security also wished for faster action from Biden.
Lechleitner referred to executive actions taken by Biden in June, which led to a significant decrease in illegal border crossings by September. However, he expressed regret that more resources were not allocated to address the issue effectively during the Biden administration. He criticized the lack of transparency and communication with the American people regarding immigration issues, as well as the restrictions placed on his agency’s ability to speak publicly about their work.
Lechleitner highlighted the challenges faced by ICE, including resource constraints, limitations on cooperation from sanctuary cities, and the complexities of prioritizing the arrest of migrants with criminal backgrounds. He emphasized the need for more resources, personnel, and support to enhance the agency’s effectiveness. Lechleitner concluded by expressing hope for increased support for ICE’s workforce in addressing immigration challenges in a more meaningful way.
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