Swalwell Shakes Up Immigration Debate With Warning to ICE

• Swalwell warning to ICE
• Driver’s licenses in dispute
• State–federal clash

According to Fox News, Congressman Eric Swalwell sparked national controversy after proposing to revoke driver’s licenses from undercover federal immigration agents operating in California while wearing masks.

The threat was raised in the context of his potential run for governor, where he is seeking to position himself as a defender of immigrant communities against what he describes as aggressive federal policies.

Swalwell argued that the state should use all its legal authority to protect vulnerable populations from immigration operations he considers intimidating.

The proposal opened a new front of confrontation between Democratic state authorities and the federal administration led by President Donald Trump.

Statements on MS NOW

Swalwell made his remarks during an interview on the program MS NOW, where he was asked what type of leadership he would offer as governor of California.

In his response, he said that protecting immigrant workers—especially those laboring in agricultural fields—must be a central priority of state government.

The congressman criticized undercover ICE agents for operating with their faces covered, arguing that this practice prevents accountability in cases of alleged abuse.

He also stated that agents should wear visible identification and face legal consequences if they commit crimes during operations in local communities.

ICE and the Use of Masks

🇺🇸 | California bans most law enforcement agencies, including ICE, from wearing masks. pic.twitter.com/Da3UTswWrO

— Alerta News 24 (@AlertaNews24) September 21, 2025

Swalwell’s proposal is directly linked to a state law seeking to prohibit immigration agents from wearing masks during operations in California.

The measure was promoted by Democratic lawmakers who argue that mask use poses risks to community safety and undermines institutional transparency.

Swalwell suggested that if the state has the authority to issue driver’s licenses, it should also be able to revoke them from agents who violate state rules.

Critics interpreted this stance as an attempt to indirectly limit the actions of federal authorities within state territory.

White House Reaction to Swalwell’s Threat

Fang Fang’s ex-lover is more upset about an illegal alien with a final order of removal, active warrants, and suspected gang affiliations getting arrested than he is about the American officer who has a concussion because this illegal resisted arrest. These people are SICK! https://t.co/YcNbs8aTmH

— Abigail Jackson (@ATJackson47) August 17, 2025

The White House responded forcefully to Swalwell’s comments, questioning his consistency and pointing to aspects of his personal political history.

Presidential spokesperson Abigail Jackson criticized California for issuing driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants involved in fatal accidents.

Jackson also attacked Swalwell over his past association with Christine Fang, a woman accused of being a Chinese spy who had participated in his political campaign.

The response aimed to discredit the congressman while reinforcing the federal narrative on security and strict enforcement of immigration laws.

Federal Lawsuit Against California

The Department of Homeland Security and the Trump administration filed a lawsuit against California to block the law banning ICE agents from wearing masks.

Federal authorities argue that the state lacks the authority to regulate the attire or operational protocols of federal agents.

As a result of the litigation, California agreed to temporarily suspend enforcement of the rule until the case is resolved.

A key hearing has been scheduled for January 12, where the constitutionality of the state law will be examined.

Legal Criticism of Swalwell’s Threat

Federal officials and prosecutors strongly criticized Swalwell, arguing that his proposals ignore the principle of federal supremacy.

Bill Essayli, an assistant U.S. attorney, stated that the state has no authority over federal law enforcement agencies.

Harmeet K. Dhillon, called the congressman’s promises absurd and questioned his legal training.

The controversy reinforces the national debate over immigration, the limits of state power, and the role of ICE in states governed by Democrats—placing the Swalwell warning to ICE at the center of the discussion.