Overview

• Democratic representatives in New York and California, including Nydia Velázquez, Adriano Espaillat, Maxine Waters and Jimmy Gomez, were turned away from federal detention facilities after seeking unannounced inspections
• DHS officials said unscheduled visits could disrupt sensitive law enforcement activities and offered to arrange tours at a later date under supervision
• Protests against ICE detentions have intensified around key facilities, with 22 demonstrators arrested at 26 Federal Plaza on June 7 and reports of pepper spray used by agents to clear crowds
• Advocates and lawmakers warn that more than 51,000 people are now in ICE custody, a 31% increase since January, leading to claims of overcrowding and unsanitary conditions
• Members of Congress vow to press for greater transparency and consider using budgetary powers to challenge the administration’s expanded enforcement tactics