Democratic Lawmaker Confronts ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons About Accountability and Ethics During Heated House Homeland Security Committee Hearing in Washington

A fiery exchange unfolded Tuesday, Feb. 10, when Democratic Representative LaMonica McIver of New Jersey confronted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Todd Lyons during a House Homeland Security Committee hearing.

The lawmaker didn’t hold back, asking Lyons pointedly whether he believes he is “going to hell” — a question that sparked both tension and rebukes from committee leadership.

Lyons, along with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Joseph Edlow and Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott, appeared before Congress as lawmakers grapple with potential reforms and funding decisions for the agencies under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

This came shortly after Congress voted on Feb. 3 to extend DHS funding until Feb. 13, temporarily ending a four-day partial government shutdown, with further funding negotiations still ongoing.

Democrats Target ICE Over Alleged Abuse and Lack of Accountability

During the hearing, Democrats delivered a scathing critique of ICE, accusing the agency of terrorizing communities, using excessive force, and failing to maintain accountability.

McIver in particular highlighted what she sees as ICE’s disregard for due process, asserting that the agency acts as if it alone decides “which people deserve dignity, protection, and due process.”

Her line of questioning became personal and confrontational.

“How do you think judgment day will work for you, with so much blood on your hands?” she asked Lyons, who declined to answer.

She followed up with the infamous “Do you think you’re going to hell?” before being reminded by Committee Chair Andrew Garbarino, a Republican from New York, to maintain decorum and avoid personal attacks.

McIver then shifted slightly, pressing Lyons about agencies that “routinely kill American citizens and still get funding,” another question he refused to entertain.

Her final note: a sharp criticism of ICE funding, warning that “the people are watching you … and this is why we need to abolish ICE.”

Republicans Defend ICE and Criticize ‘Sanctuary’ Policies

Republican lawmakers pushed back, defending ICE and highlighting challenges posed by “sanctuary” cities and states that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.

Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas warned that Democrats’ calls to abolish ICE threaten public safety, while Rep. August Pfluger said the debate reflects a clear divide: one side favors enforcing existing immigration laws, while the other supports looser border policies.

Republicans also expressed concern about morale among ICE agents, pointing to increasing threats and assaults against personnel.

Commissioner Scott stressed the need for bipartisan support to ensure DHS agencies can function effectively.

Spotlight on Tragic Deaths and Calls for Reform

The hearing repeatedly touched on the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti at ICE protests, which Democrats cited as evidence of excessive force and a lack of accountability.

Rep. Eric Swalwell of California criticized DHS Secretary Kristi Noem for labeling the victims as “domestic terrorists,” and asked Lyons whether he would apologize to the families — a question Lyons declined, citing ongoing investigations, but offered to discuss privately with the families.

Democrats remain divided on the agency’s future. Some, like Rep. Seth Magaziner of Rhode Island, argue for reforms before funding is extended, emphasizing accountability and oversight.

Others, such as Rep. Delia Ramirez of Illinois, call for abolishing ICE and DHS entirely, saying the agencies were created to “violate our rights under the pretense of securing our safety” after 9/11.

Broader Political and Religious Context

Observers have noted the political theater surrounding the debate.

Andrew Arthur, a resident fellow at the Center for Immigration Studies, told EWTN News Nightly that Democrats’ threats to halt ICE funding are largely symbolic, aimed at turning an immigration issue into a political weapon for midterm elections.

He also mentioned potential shifts in ICE’s strategy in Minneapolis under the guidance of Border Czar Tom Homan, who seeks cooperation from state and local governments that have been hesitant toward federal enforcement.

The religious community has also weighed in.

In November 2025, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops overwhelmingly opposed indiscriminate deportations, and last month, around 300 Catholic leaders urged Congress to reject ICE funding if the legislation doesn’t include protections for migrants.

What’s Next?

Congress faces a looming Feb. 13 deadline to extend DHS funding again, with debates likely to intensify over whether ICE should be reformed, funded as is, or dismantled entirely.

Meanwhile, bipartisan tensions are expected to shape how lawmakers approach immigration policy, agency accountability, and law enforcement funding moving forward.

ICE and DHS officials are preparing for continued scrutiny, while advocacy groups and political observers watch closely for both legislative and public reactions.

The controversy highlights the broader struggle in Washington over immigration enforcement and human rights, with potential ripple effects in the midterm elections and future policy debates.

Summary

Tuesday’s House Homeland Security Committee hearing showcased a dramatic confrontation between Democratic lawmakers and ICE leadership.

The discussion ranged from pointed moral questioning, including a dramatic inquiry about judgment and hell, to calls for agency reform or abolition.

Republicans defended ICE and emphasized the challenges posed by “sanctuary” policies.

Tragic deaths at ICE protests underscored concerns about accountability and excessive force, while religious groups and advocacy organizations pushed for protections for migrants.

With funding negotiations set to resume imminently, the nation remains on edge as Congress debates the future of ICE and DHS.