ICE Reports Deportations of 174 Daca Recipients Amid Growing Concerns Over Program’s Integrity
In a letter to Illinois Congresswoman Delia Ramirez, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Acting Director, Todd Lyons, revealed that a total of 174 undocumented immigrants who were renewing their Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (Daca) protections were deported between January and September 2025. These deportations raise concerns about the treatment and security of individuals who were previously allowed to stay in the US under the Obama-era program.
The Daca program, commonly referred to as the “Dreamers” program, granted protection from deportation to undocumented immigrants who arrived in the US as children. The 174 deportations reported by ICE occurred during a period when the program’s future remains uncertain. The letter, while not providing reasons for the deportations, confirms that a total of 270 Daca recipients were arrested over the first nine months of the current presidency.
While the deportations are concerning, it’s essential to note that the letter reviewed by the Guardian did not specify the reasons behind the ICE actions. The Daca program has been a subject of debate in Washington, with various lawmakers pushing for its expansion and others advocating for its abolishment.
ICE officials have faced criticism for their handling of Daca recipients in the past, with many advocates arguing that the agency should prioritize their safety and status. In response to the letter, representatives of Daca recipients have called for the program’s permanent solution and expressed concerns over the deportations.
Delia Ramirez, the Illinois congresswoman who received the letter, has vowed to continue fighting for the rights of Daca recipients and the broader immigrant community. Her office has not commented on the specifics of the letter but has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals seeking to contribute to the US workforce.
As the debate over the Daca program’s future continues, advocates on both sides are urging US lawmakers to take action. Some are pushing for a pathway to citizenship for the estimated 650,000 Daca recipients in the country, while others are advocating for stricter immigration controls.
ICE officials have stated that they will continue to enforce immigration laws, but it remains unclear how the agency will proceed with Daca recipients. The agency’s actions will be closely watched as the White House and Congress consider potential changes to the program.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as new information becomes available.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as new information becomes available.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as new information becomes available.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as new information becomes available.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as new information becomes available.
