Lubbock rally speaker demands ICE abolition before Talarico takes stage

Malik Williams, a Democratic candidate for the Texas legislature, told a crowd in Lubbock on Tuesday that he would abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He made the declaration while introducing U.S. Senate nominee James Talarico. The stance contrasts with Talarico’s recent public comments, where he rejected the idea of dismantling the agency.

Williams said the group would legalize THC and cannabis, tax the wealthy, and elect Talarico to the Senate. The audience applauded loudly. He also criticized the current political environment, calling for better representation against what he described as embarrassing leaders who support a fascist, racist, and war criminal. He pointed to President Donald Trump and Talarico’s Republican opponent, Ken Paxton, in this critique.

Talarico has walked back his earlier rhetoric. During a joint town hall with CNN and Jubilee, he answered a question about abolishing ICE with a direct no. He stated that he never supported abolition and that the country needs the agency. However, he described the recent behavior of the organization as a secret police force that the public does not want.

This position differs from remarks Talarico made in January during a primary debate with Rep. Jasmine Crockett. At that time, he argued it was time to tear down ICE. He cited specific incidents, including claims that agents shot a mother in the face and kidnapped a five-year-old boy. He proposed replacing the agency with one focused on public safety and called for agents to testify before Congress.

Public opinion in Texas remains split on the issue. A February poll by The Texas Politics Project found that 42% of voters view the agency favorably, while 47% view it unfavorably. A July YouGov/The Economist poll showed 48% of Americans support abolishing ICE, but 67% of Republicans strongly oppose it.

Williams expanded his speech to include other policies favored by the Democratic Socialists of America. He called for guaranteed childcare, expanded healthcare, and more funding for public education. He also argued that ranchers and farmers do not want data centers built in their communities without consent. The Talarico, Williams, and Paxton campaigns did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The next major event on the campaign trail is scheduled for the upcoming weekend. Talarico is set to hold additional town halls in the state to continue his bid for the Senate seat.