BOSTON , MA November 21, 2025 – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) sharply criticized the Trump administration and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Friday, accusing them of failing to enhance public safety while “criminalizing” immigrant communities without due process.
In a strongly worded statement posted to X (formerly Twitter), the progressive lawmaker expressed relief that many families affected by a recent ICE raid in Boston’s Allston neighborhood had been reunited with their loved ones. “Trump and ICE are doing nothing to keep us safe,” Pressley wrote. “And our immigrant neighbors are being criminalized without due process. Deeply relieved that many of these families have been reunited with their loved ones — a testament to what’s possible when we stand up for our neighbors.”
Pressley’s comments referenced a November 20 operation at an Allston car wash where federal agents detained several individuals suspected of immigration violations. According to local reports from WBUR, community advocates and legal aid groups mobilized quickly, securing bond releases for a number of those detained.
The raid has reignited debates over immigration enforcement in sanctuary cities like Boston, particularly as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office in January with promises of expanded deportations. ICE officials have defended such operations as targeted efforts to remove individuals with criminal records or those in violation of immigration laws, though specific details about the Allston detainees remain limited.
Pressley, a vocal advocate for immigrant rights and a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, linked to the WBUR article in her thread, highlighting the role of community activism in the reunifications.
The post quickly drew polarized reactions online, with supporters praising her defense of immigrant families and critics accusing her of undermining law enforcement.
As the incoming administration signals a tougher stance on immigration, incidents like the Allston raid are likely to fuel ongoing tensions between federal authorities and Democratic strongholds in Massachusetts and beyond.
