Lawmakers Denied Access to ICE Detention Centers: What Are They Hiding?

Lawmakers Blocked from ICE Detention Centers Amidst Allegations of Neglect On June 10th, 2025, several lawmakers attempting to visit ICE detention facilities in California and New York were denied entry. This occurred despite ICE's own policy stating that advance notice is not required for Congressional visits. The incident raises serious concerns about transparency and the conditions within these facilities. Rep. Maxine Waters, for example, was prevented from entering the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles while attempting to visit union president David Huerta, who had been arrested during a protest against ICE raids. Similarly, in New York, Rep. Adriano Espaillat and Rep. Nydia Velázquez were turned away from the Javitz Federal Building. "They're kept out," stated Jimmy Gomez, who, along with Norma Torres, was denied entry to an LA detention center the day before, during an attempted oversight visit. Gomez reported that agents used an irritant spray to push back those attempting to enter. These accounts raise questions about the conditions inside ICE facilities and the government's willingness to allow oversight. Former detainees have described the conditions as overcrowded, unsanitary, and neglectful, with individuals sleeping on bathroom floors without adequate care. ICE has described these conditions as temporary, but the repeated denial of access to lawmakers suggests a deeper issue. The situation underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in ICE operations.