Overview
- This week Rosie O'Donnell posted a viral TikTok accusing ICE detention centers of resembling Nazi camps and claiming detainees, including children, were being raped and becoming pregnant.
- The Department of Homeland Security issued a sharp rebuttal on Sept. 2, calling the allegations "disgusting, reckless, and categorically FALSE" and describing ICE standards for meals, hygiene, medical care, phones and legal access.
- DHS provided a cited figure saying pregnancy in custody was 0.15% as of June 30 and said pregnant detainees receive prenatal and other medical services.
- The White House echoed the criticism and highlighted recent ICE arrests of noncitizens accused of violent crimes while DHS said public comparisons have coincided with large percentage increases in assaults, vehicle attacks, and death threats against ICE staff.
- Coverage of the exchange is largely running in right-leaning outlets, O'Donnell has a history of similar comparisons, and reporters say her representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment.