Wisconsin Governor Evers’ ICE Directive Sparks Cover-Up Debate
A controversial memo fuels accusations of lawlessness and political divides
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On April 28, 2025, a directive from Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers’ administration instructing state employees on ICE interactions has ignited a firestorm, with Republicans accusing Evers of aiding illegal immigrants to evade arrest and alleging a cover-up by mainstream media and politicians. Evers denies any wrongdoing, asserting the guidance ensures legal compliance, but the controversy, amplified by a Milwaukee judge’s arrest, underscores a deep divide over immigration enforcement in the state.
The Directive: What It Says
The Department of Administration’s memo instructs state employees to stay calm, verify ICE agents’ identities, consult with legal counsel before cooperating, and avoid answering questions or granting access to non-public areas without a judicial warrant. It emphasizes protecting confidential data and ensuring legal compliance, stating employees are not required to assist ICE absent a warrant. Critics argue this obstructs federal law, while supporters say it safeguards rights.
Republican Backlash and Cover-Up Claims
Republicans have fiercely criticized the directive, with U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany calling it “ordering state employees to block ICE from doing their job.” Wisconsin Republican Party Chairman Brian Schimming labeled it an order to “impede justice,” warning it “puts our communities, families, and children at risk.” The arrest of Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Duggan on April 25, 2025, for allegedly helping an immigrant evade ICE, has intensified these accusations, with some alleging a broader cover-up by mainstream media and politicians who downplay the issue.
Evers’ Defense and Democratic Support
Evers has denied encouraging law-breaking, stating on WISN’s “UpFront,” “We’re not encouraging them to break the law.” He emphasized the need for legal counsel, saying, “I just think if they come in, ICE comes in and wants to talk to somebody, I think an attorney should be there.” Democrats like Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez support this, arguing, “While as a state we may not stop the federal government from exercising its legitimate power within the state’s borders, a state is not required to help the federal government in the exercise of its powers.”
Broader Context: Immigration Tensions
This controversy reflects broader tensions over immigration policy in Wisconsin, as Democrats push legislation to limit ICE cooperation, citing the need to protect vulnerable communities. Faith leaders like Rev. Kerri Parker have called for humane policies, stating, “We live in an age of fear and separation, but Wisconsin, we can do better.” Meanwhile, Republicans, citing Trump’s narrow 2024 win in Wisconsin, argue for stricter enforcement, with Assembly Speaker Robin Vos advocating for mandatory cooperation with ICE.
Source Previews
Wisconsin Examiner: Wisconsin Democrats seek to prohibit state and local cooperation with ICE and deportation efforts
Published January 29, 2025, this article details Democratic efforts to limit ICE cooperation and protect immigrant communities (Wisconsin Examiner).
WisPolitics: Evers tells ‘UpFront’ he’s not directing employees to break the law if federal immigration officials enter state buildings
Published April 27, 2025, this piece covers Evers’ defense of the directive and his call for legal caution (WisPolitics).
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Democrats denounce arrest of Milwaukee judge in ICE case as some Republicans cheer
Published April 27, 2025, this article highlights the arrest of Judge Hannah Duggan, tying it to the broader ICE directive debate (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel).
