1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

The recent vote by House Republicans against an amendment to explicitly prohibit Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from deporting U.S. citizens is deeply concerning. Deporting American citizens would be a flagrant violation of their constitutional rights and an egregious abuse of government power. It is a fundamental principle that no citizen should be subjected to such an extreme measure without due process. The suggestion by President Trump to potentially deport U.S. citizens convicted of violent crimes to El Salvador is not only legally dubious but also morally reprehensible. Stripping individuals of their citizenship and banishing them from their home country, regardless of their crimes, goes against the very values of justice and human rights that our nation claims to uphold. Furthermore, the Trump administration's alleged practice of deporting migrants without due process and flouting court orders is a disturbing disregard for the rule of law. Any deportation, whether of citizens or non-citizens, must follow proper legal procedures and respect fundamental rights. I urge you to take a stand against these alarming actions and rhetoric. Our government must unequivocally affirm its commitment to protecting the rights and freedoms of all American citizens, regardless of their background or actions. Deporting U.S. citizens would be a grave injustice and a stain on our nation's democracy.