Kentucky – Andy Beshear ignited a sharp clash over immigration enforcement when he called for the full removal of ICE agents from communities across the state.
Beshear Issues Stark Call for Reform
During a recent appearance on The View, Beshear urged every ICE agent to withdraw from all cities and communities. He argued the agency needs a complete overhaul, including the dismissal of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and retraining for all personnel.
The governor cited a rising “body-count of American citizens” as justification for an immediate halt to operations. He later reinforced his stance, claiming ICE operates beyond standard law enforcement limits and violates constitutional rights. Drawing on his experience as Kentucky’s attorney general, he said he understands proper investigative procedures. While no policy changes followed, his remarks intensified debate statewide.
Attorney General Coleman Fires Back
Russell Coleman called Beshear’s position “absurd” and warned it threatens public safety. Speaking at the Daviess County sheriff’s office, where deputies actively collaborate with ICE, Coleman emphasized his nonpartisan background as a former federal prosecutor.
He noted that the Kentucky State Police cooperated with ICE during Beshear’s administration. His office, he added, works alongside 120 county sheriffs, many maintaining close federal partnerships. Coleman pointed to major enforcement actions, including the arrest of 650 individuals crossing the Tug Fork River and the removal of a child sex predator from Owensboro. He pledged continued coordination among sworn officials to safeguard families.
Federal Officials Highlight Arrest Numbers
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin rejected Beshear’s comments, stating federal agents will continue targeting criminal illegal immigrants. She accused sanctuary-leaning leaders of attacking law enforcement while prioritizing criminals over citizens.
Recent Kentucky operations produced significant arrests. Agents detained Roman Sanchez, convicted of homicide and other violent crimes, along with suspects facing rape charges. ICE also responded on social media, vowing to remove criminal aliens despite criticism from the governor. Officials reported 1,950 arrests in Kentucky between January and mid-October 2025, marking a 32% increase from the previous year.
Growing Divide Over Immigration Cooperation
Legal analyst Zack Smith, a former federal prosecutor, described Beshear’s demand as “foolish and dangerous,” comparing it to enforcement disruptions seen in Minnesota. Republican lawmakers in Kentucky advanced proposals to strengthen local-federal cooperation, including reinstating the “Task Force Model” that allows immigration checks during routine stops.
The program had been suspended from 2012 to 2025 over civil rights concerns but resumed amid intensified enforcement efforts. Beshear invoked his First Amendment rights in response to ICE criticism, maintaining the agency requires constitutional retraining. While neighboring Virginia considered scaling back cooperation with federal authorities, Kentucky officials indicated no similar move.
Child sex predator removed from Owensboro.
Seniors protected from an extortion scheme.
650 arrests near the Tug Fork River.
Homicide convict Roman Sanchez detained.
Rape suspects taken into custody.
Key Takeaways
Beshear’s demand underscores mounting federal-state tensions in conservative states led by Democratic governors.
County sheriffs continue partnering with ICE despite the governor’s objections.
Enforcement efforts resulted in more than 1,950 arrests in 2025, up 32% year over year.
The dispute highlights widening divisions over immigration policy, as local leadership priorities collide with federal enforcement mandates. As operations proceed, Kentucky residents balance public safety concerns with constitutional protections.
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