Wisconsin’s Democratic governor throws shade on his No. 2’s anti-ICE plans

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers is casting doubts on his lieutenant governor’s proposal to ban federal immigration enforcement actions around courthouses, schools, day cares and other locations.

Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, a Democrat, called Monday for a ban on civil immigration enforcement action at Wisconsin courthouses, hospitals and health clinics, licensed child care centers and day cares, schools and institutions of higher learning, domestic violence shelters and places of worship. Exceptions include a judicial warrant or an immediate threat to public safety.

When asked about her proposal at a news briefing, Mr. Evers, a fellow Democrat, said, “I’m not sure we have the ability to do that.”

Ms. Rodriguez, who was elected with Mr. Evers in 2022, is vying for the governorship this year following Mr. Evers’ decision against seeking a third term.

Mr. Evers also expressed concern about how the Trump administration would react to such a challenge to federal law enforcement actions. 

“We can take a look at that, but I think banning things absolutely will ramp up the actions of our folks in Washington, D.C.,” He said. “They don’t tend to approach those things appropriately.”

Ms. Rodriguez called on Wisconsin lawmakers to adopt her proposal, which also includes requirements that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents be unmasked, clearly identify themselves, and wear body cameras. It would also allow individuals to sue any officer who knowingly violates constitutional rights.

“If someone is convicted of a violent crime and is in the country unlawfully, federal law requires deportation,” she said in a press release. “But unidentified, masked agents conducting civil arrests at schools, hospitals, or courthouses undermines safety, trust, and the rule of law. Wisconsin has both the right and the responsibility to demand better.”

Her plan comes after an ICE officer fatally shot Renee Good in Minnesota last week, kicking off nationwide protests against President Trump’s deportation operations.

The proposal largely mirrors others offered in Democratic-controlled states such as California, New York, Illinois and New Jersey.