For Immediate Release // Please Excuse Cross Posting
Thursday, January 29th, 2026
Contact: Palmira Figueroa, 425.301.2764, pfigueroa@ndlon.org
Statement from Chris Newman, NDLON’s Legal Director:
“After a year of retreat and political cowardice by many Democrats in the face of Trump’s assault on immigrants and democracy, Democratic negotiators now appear poised to squander a historic opportunity—one made possible by people across the country who have risked, and in some cases lost, their lives defending their neighbors and our shared constitutional values.
Democratic leadership’s fixation on poll-tested half-measures, like body cameras for rogue federal police, is a reminder of their weakness and incompetence. Will they really waste this moment instead of meaningfully protecting their constituents?
The bare-minimum demand in budget negotiations should be clear and uncompromising: ICE and Border Patrol out of our cities immediately. Free Liam immediately. Fire Stephen Miller immediately.
Thankfully, the people of Minnesota have shown what real courage and leadership look like. Schumer and Jeffries should lead, follow—or at the very least, get out of the way.”
*** Additionally, NDLON extends its respect and gratitude to those who confronted Suozzi for his betrayal of our community. We hope others follow their example.
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