Maine Communities Face Uncertainty Amid ICE Enforcement Operation

Residents and businesses in Maine are grappling with the repercussions of a recent enforcement operation conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that began on January 21, 2026. The operation, referred to as “Catch of the Day,” targets individuals deemed the “worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens,” according to the Department of Homeland Security. Reports indicate that nearly 50 arrests have been made during this surge, raising alarm in local communities.

Cassandra Linton, who operates a company supporting adults with disabilities, expressed deep concern after one of her employees was detained during the first day of the operation. The employee, originally from Burundi and with a pending asylum claim, was apprehended while stepping out for food. Linton noted that many of her staff are immigrants who have undergone thorough vetting. She emphasized the fear this situation creates, particularly for her clients, some of whom are nonverbal and depend on their caregivers for support.

In the Parkside neighborhood of Portland, residents reacted with alarm as ICE agents conducted operations. One local, identified only as Olivia, described her experience of sounding alarms to alert others about the presence of ICE agents. “I just feel like it’s insane that this is allowed to be happening,” she stated, highlighting the anxiety that has permeated the area.

Local officials have voiced their condemnation of ICE’s actions. State Senate President Mattie Daughtry criticized the language used in naming the operation, stating that it dehumanizes individuals. She remarked, “The rhetoric being used feels less like law enforcement and more like people are being hunted for sport.” This sentiment was echoed by Portland City Councilor Wes Pelletier, who described the operation as a “war of terror” being waged on the city by the federal government.

The enforcement operation has resulted in immediate community impacts, including a noticeable decline in school attendance in Portland. Local schools reported that families are keeping children at home due to fears of immigration enforcement. In response, community members have begun forming networks to deliver food and other necessities to those choosing to shelter in place.

The ICE deputy assistant director, Patricia Hyde, confirmed that the agency has a target list of 1,400 individuals in Maine, which represents about 10% of the undocumented immigrant population in the state, according to the Migration Policy Institute. This has heightened concerns among immigrant advocacy groups and local leaders, who argue that such actions exacerbate existing fears within communities.

As the operation continues, the long-term implications for Maine’s immigrant population remain uncertain. Local officials are calling for an end to what they describe as unnecessary federal intervention in their communities. The situation underscores the broader tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and its impact on everyday lives in Maine and beyond.