Poll: Governor Gordon’s Decision To Have National Guard Support ICE

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon this week announced this week that Wyoming National Guard members will be deployed in administrative and logistic roles to help Immigration and Customs Enforcement [ICE] in their enforcement efforts.

The guard members will not be directly involved in apprehending suspected undocumented aliens, but will free up ICE to concentrate on enforcement efforts.

Gordon Explains Decision

A release from the governor's office read in part:

"Up to 15 Wyoming National Guard members will be assigned to support ICE over the coming months, providing administrative, logistics and transportation support to ICE. Guard personnel will not be directing enforcement operations and will remain under the Governor’s command and control while working alongside ICE. The Guard mission is expected to begin within 30 days."

He went on to say:

“By handling essential support work, the Wyoming National Guard enables ICE agents to focus on public safety and national security. Our Guard is our Sword and Shield. Members have always answered the call, and I know they will perform this mission in accordance with their oath and with the professionalism they are known for.”

The ACLU of Wyoming Is Not Pleased

The ACLU of Wyoming is taking a very different view of the governor's announcement. Executive Director Libby Skarin issued a statement which included the following:

''The ACLU of Wyoming opposes the use of military forces for domestic immigration enforcement. Deploying the Wyoming National Guard blurs the line between the military and civilian law enforcement and raises serious concerns about potential abuses of power.

"Gov. Gordon’s assertions that this authorization is in pursuit of public safety strains credulity and is at odds with what’s happening on the ground and what data shows. Recent reports have shown that most of the people detained by ICE in Wyoming over the last year do not have any criminal record. n addition, the fear among immigrants and their loved ones across Wyoming is palpable."

So what do you think? Take our poll and give us your opinion!