1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing as a concerned constituent regarding the recent detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a lawful permanent resident and former student at Columbia University. On March 8, 2025, Mr. Khalil was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at his university-owned apartment in Manhattan. He is known for his involvement in pro-Palestinian activism on campus, including leading protests advocating for Palestinian rights. His wife, a U.S. citizen who is eight months pregnant, was reportedly present during the arrest. Regardless of one’s stance on his activism, due process is a cornerstone of our democracy. The use of immigration enforcement against a legal permanent resident for political speech raises serious constitutional concerns. If a lawful resident can be detained in this manner today, what prevents future administrations from using similar tactics against other voices—including conservative activists, religious leaders, or journalists? I urge you to take the following actions: 1. Ensure transparency – Demand that ICE provide a clear public statement on the legal justification for Khalil’s detention and his current status. 2. Advocate for due process – Request a formal review of this case to ensure Mr. Khalil has full legal representation and that his rights as a permanent resident are protected. 3. Safeguard against government overreach – Work to ensure that immigration enforcement is not misused as a tool for political suppression, which sets a dangerous precedent for all Americans. This is not just about one individual—it is about ensuring that our government does not wield its power in a way that undermines constitutional freedoms. I urge you to take action to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of political affiliation. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.