Federal Officials Condemn Mayor Wu's ICE Comparison

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu faced condemnation from Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, the Department of Homeland Security, and the White House after comparing the mask-wearing practices of ICE agents to those of the neo-Nazi group NSC-131 and to 'secret police' tactics. Federal officials described her comments as 'disgusting,' 'dangerous,' and 'sickening,' arguing that such rhetoric endangers ICE personnel, who have faced a 413% increase in assaults. Wu's remarks were made amid concerns about the concealment of ICE agents' identities during operations. The White House defended a recent ICE operation in Boston that resulted in nearly 800 arrests of undocumented immigrants with criminal records, stating that such efforts enhance public safety. Federal officials emphasized that ICE agents wear masks for protection against retaliation from dangerous criminals, not to obscure accountability. Despite the ongoing political tension and Boston's sanctuary city status, federal law enforcement agencies have pledged to continue their operations in the city.