Fetterman Backs ICE Operation Targeting Sex Offenders, Luna Calls for Death Penalty

Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) has expressed support for a recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation that resulted in the arrests of over 200 undocumented immigrants linked to sex crimes involving minors. The enforcement sweep, which took place in the Houston area over a six-month period, was described by ICE as part of its ongoing efforts to remove dangerous individuals from American communities.

Among those apprehended was 40-year-old Jose Guadalupe Meza, a Mexican national with a history of illegal reentry into the United States. Meza had previously been deported four times and was arrested again on June 24. ICE reported that he was deported the following day. Officials say Meza had been convicted of child-related sex offenses in the past, underscoring concerns about repeat offenders exploiting gaps in the immigration system.

In a statement shared on social media, Fetterman acknowledged differences with ICE on certain practices but emphasized the importance of targeting those who pose a clear threat to public safety.

“I do fully support moves like these. This makes our nation more secure and all our children safer,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Fetterman’s comments mark a notable moment of bipartisan consensus on specific immigration enforcement actions, even as broader immigration policies remain deeply divided along party lines. While he has previously voiced opposition to sweeping measures, such as a bill proposed by former President Donald Trump and House Republicans to significantly increase funding for ICE and complete the southern border wall, Fetterman maintained that targeted operations like the recent arrests serve a critical public safety role.

By contrast, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) offered a far more aggressive stance in her response to the arrests. Taking to social media, Luna called for capital punishment for offenders involved in crimes against children, particularly those who reenter the country after deportation.

“Skip deportation. Go directly to the death penalty. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200,” she wrote, echoing language from the classic board game Monopoly while making a serious point about criminal justice consequences.

ICE officials highlighted the scope and impact of the operation. Paul McBride, acting field office director for ICE in Houston, described the arrests as a significant step in efforts to eliminate threats posed by violent criminals and gang members who are unlawfully present in the U.S.

“This operation reflects ICE’s commitment to protecting communities from individuals who harm the most vulnerable — our children,” McBride stated in a press release.

He also noted that many of those arrested had prior convictions or were facing charges for crimes such as sexual assault, child exploitation, and other serious offenses.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Faces Criticism Over Texas Flood Response

In related federal news, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is under scrutiny following the government’s response to severe flooding that struck parts of Texas over the July 4 holiday weekend.

The Texas Hill Country experienced torrential rain and flash flooding, which led to widespread property damage and the displacement of residents. Kerrville, one of the hardest-hit towns, was reportedly caught off guard, with internal city communications revealing a lack of preparedness.

A text conversation between Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice and another city official — obtained by local outlet KSAT — included a reference to Noem as “Homeland Barbie,” a nickname that has circulated online but drew backlash when used in an official capacity. Critics said the message showed a lack of seriousness amid a crisis situation.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) deployment during the flooding also came under fire. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) criticized the administration for what he claimed was a reduction in FEMA staffing during a key period of the emergency, though he stopped short of directly blaming Noem.

Noem, defending the federal response, appeared on Fox News and said the Department of Homeland Security acted quickly in coordination with Texas officials. She stated that more than 700 FEMA and U.S. Coast Guard personnel were mobilized in the days following the disaster.

“We moved swiftly to provide resources and support to local communities. Coordination with state and local leadership was key,” Noem said during the interview.

While investigations into the flooding response are ongoing, the political fallout from both the ICE operation and the federal disaster management effort highlights the intense scrutiny facing both immigration enforcement and emergency preparedness in today’s polarized political environment.