Fear and Anxiety Rise in Maine Amid ICE Operations Targeting Immigrants

Mon Feb 02 2026 22:12:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Trump administration's recent immigration enforcement action in Maine raises concerns among immigrant communities and local leaders, who fear the impact on the state's growing refugee population.

Maine, home to a significant immigrant population, particularly from Africa, is facing the brunt of a new immigration enforcement campaign dubbed 'Catch of the Day.' Local leaders and community members express deep concerns over the potential impact on the immigrant community, schools, and local economies in Portland and Lewiston as fears of ICE operations loom large.

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The Trump administration's renewed focus on immigration enforcement in Maine has sparked significant concern and anxiety among local immigrant communities, especially in cities like Portland and Lewiston, which have become home to a large number of refugees, notably from Africa.

Recent reports indicate that under a new operation called 'Catch of the Day,' ICE agents are targeting up to 1,000 residents throughout Maine. This initiative is causing heightened fears in immigrant neighborhoods, where many depend on stable community environments for their livelihoods and safety.

State leaders, including Governor Janet Mills, have vocally opposed this operation, questioning the need for aggressive tactics that could undermine civil rights. 'Aggressive enforcement actions that undermine civil rights are not welcome in our communities,' Mills stated.

Members of the Portland city council, such as Pious Ali, who is originally from Ghana, highlighted the stark reality of fear gripping local neighborhoods. Reports have noted that many immigrants have stopped attending work or school, exacerbating the community's anxiety. Ali expressed concern that the federal government could conduct its operations without instilling fear in these vulnerable populations.

The presence of ICE agents has prompted a 'lockout' at local schools, unsettling parents and students as administrators reacted to perceived threats based on recent ICE activities in the vicinity. Lewiston's mayor also reported similar concerns, labeling the environment as one filled with anxiety and dread.

In response to escalating worries, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows declined to issue undercover license plates for ICE operations, a move that has drawn criticism from some state Republicans who believe it undermines public safety. Bellows emphasized the need for assurances that these plates would not be used for unlawful purposes.

Maine’s demographic shift, particularly the influx of Somali immigrants since the early 2000s, has made this state a focal point for debates surrounding immigration policy and enforcement. As officials from both sides of the aisle urge for calm, the ongoing situation adds to the complex discussion on immigration rights and local governance.

With reports of escalating enforcement actions in other states, community organizations in Maine continue to rally for a compassionate response to the fears surrounding the federal crackdown. Activists argue that the focus should remain on community safety and support for all residents, rather than creating an environment of fear and mistrust.