ICE: Testimony from a Veteran Agent on the New Era of National Security under Trump

Amid the intense national debate over immigration and border security, a veteran ICE agent (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has provided a key testimony offering clarity about the agency’s true mission and impact under President Donald J. Trump’s administration. With over 30 years of service and experience working under four different administrations, his account debunks myths, explains internal cultural changes, and highlights the commitment the current leadership has brought to protecting the United States without sacrificing justice or respect for the law.

Three decades of service to the nation: a privileged perspective
The agent emphasized that throughout his years in government, he had never witnessed such a profound and positive shift in ICE’s direction. “I reached 30 years of government service this past September, and I have worked under four administrations. And I have never seen this before,” he stated, referring to the current administration.

He explained that public perception of ICE is heavily influenced by political and media narratives that do not reflect the agency’s operational reality. “I believe the perception people have about who we are is incorrect, and there is a mistaken idea that we go after people and families, but that’s not true,” he noted.

The agent detailed that ICE operations are neither arbitrary nor indiscriminate but highly specific and focused on identifying and apprehending individuals who pose a real threat to national or public security.

Culture and language shift: a new ICE for a new era
One of the most relevant points in his testimony was the need for change both in ICE’s internal dynamics and in the language used to describe its work. “I had never seen this in my previous years, but we need to change the language and also change the dynamics and culture,” he emphasized.

This call for comprehensive transformation responds to the need to rebuild trust in an institution that for years was targeted by media and political campaigns aiming to delegitimize it, often misrepresenting its function and motivations. Under the Trump administration, ICE has become an agency operating with transparency, professionalism, and a clear commitment to law enforcement and citizen protection.

This cultural change also involves better training for personnel, implementing strict protocols that respect human rights, and fostering an environment where the national security mission goes hand in hand with justice and dignity.

National security: the absolute priority
The testimony highlights that the Trump administration has established national security as an unwavering priority, with ICE playing a fundamental role in this strategy. The agency’s operations not only seek to prevent illegal entry by people who could endanger the country but also target criminal networks, traffickers, and organizations operating within the nation.

Positive impact on American communities
Beyond political rhetoric, the agent underscored the tangible impact ICE operations have on the daily safety of communities. “We are making our community safer,” he firmly stated.

This means protecting families and citizens from the crime that often accompanies illegal immigration, ranging from minor offenses to serious crimes. The agent highlighted that ICE’s actions help create an environment where people can live peacefully, work, educate their children, and participate in civic life without fear of insecurity.

Responding to criticism and misinformation
The article cannot ignore the criticisms ICE has faced in recent years. However, the voice of this agent with three decades of experience and serious work provides a necessary counterbalance.

Support from the Trump administration
The immigration and security policies implemented by President Trump since his return in 2025 have placed ICE in a position of strength and renewal. The administration has provided the resources needed to modernize the agency, improve working conditions, and establish stricter controls to prevent abuses.

President Trump has emphasized the importance of protecting national sovereignty, securing borders, and reinforcing immigration law. In the agent’s words, this leadership has allowed ICE to fulfill its mission without the political interference that often complicated its work in previous administrations.

The future of ICE: commitment and professionalism
Concluding his testimony, the agent stated that the way forward involves continuing to strengthen the agency, promoting professionalism, and maintaining an open dialogue with society to explain its true function.

“National security is everyone’s responsibility,” he concluded, “and ICE is committed to doing what it must to protect Americans.”

Conclusion

This testimony is a compelling example of the positive turnaround ICE has experienced under President Donald Trump’s leadership in 2025. The agency positions itself not as a persecutor but as a fundamental tool for national protection, acting with ethics, responsibility, and transparency.

In a country that must secure its borders and guarantee the well-being of its citizens, ICE represents the necessary defense against the threats posed by illegality and crime. Changing perceptions and supporting this work is key to building a safer, stronger, and freer US.