The article highlights several instances of concerning actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, including the abduction of Mahmoud Khalil, the arrest of Rumeysa Ozturk, and the mass deportation of Venezuelans to El Salvador without due process. These actions are compared to tactics used by authoritarian regimes.
The author emphasizes the arbitrary nature of these arrests, pointing to the use of unmarked vehicles and agents who refuse to identify themselves. The experiences of individuals like Khalil and Ozturk are detailed to illustrate the fear and uncertainty generated by these actions. The lack of transparency and due process is a major concern.
The article notes the apparent disregard for court rulings by the executive branch. Federal judges' orders to halt deportations or provide information have seemingly been ignored, further exacerbating concerns about the rule of law.
The author specifically condemns the mass deportation of Venezuelans to El Salvador, highlighting the indefinite imprisonment without due process.
The piece argues that these actions collectively paint a picture of a growing police state within the United States, undermining fundamental legal and civil rights. The author's personal experiences and those of friends who lived under dictatorships are used to draw parallels and underscore the severity of the situation.