In a significant escalation of partisan tensions over immigration enforcement, Democratic Representative Julia Johnson of Texas has called for Congress to curtail funding for the Department of Homeland Security, accusing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) of “terrorizing Texans.”

Johnson’s remarks came in response to a controversial ICE-involved shooting in Minneapolis that left a woman dead last Wednesday. When asked if congressional Democrats should rein in DHS funding in light of the incident, Johnson responded with an unequivocal “Absolutely.”

The Texas lawmaker directed specific criticism at DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, claiming she has demonstrated “a lack of ability” to properly manage her budget. “She’s emphasizing the wrong things,” Johnson stated. “She’s rewarding the wrong things. And we should absolutely use that to rein this agency back in to where they’re doing the people’s work in a constitutional way.”

The fatal shooting that prompted Johnson’s comments occurred during an ICE operation in Minneapolis. According to DHS, officers were conducting targeted operations when an individual allegedly attempted to ram agents with her vehicle. In a statement posted on social media platform X, DHS characterized the incident as “an act of domestic terrorism,” stating that “an ICE officer, fearing for his life, the lives of his fellow law enforcement and the safety of the public, fired defensive shots.”

The incident has intensified an already heated national debate about immigration enforcement tactics. Critics have questioned the use of lethal force, while DHS has maintained that officers acted in self-defense against a violent threat.

Despite Johnson’s vocal support for restricting DHS funding, such a move faces significant political obstacles. Republicans currently hold majority control in both chambers of Congress, making it virtually impossible for Democrats to unilaterally implement funding changes without substantial bipartisan support.

The political stakes are particularly high as 2026 is a midterm election year, with Republicans working to maintain their slim majorities in both the House and Senate. Immigration policy has emerged as a central campaign issue, with GOP lawmakers frequently visiting the southern border to highlight their stance on tougher border security measures.

The confrontation between ICE and protesters in Minneapolis highlights the increasingly contentious nature of immigration enforcement operations under the current administration. Law enforcement maintains that officers were legitimately defending themselves from a deadly threat, while critics question whether appropriate protocols were followed.

Johnson’s comments represent a growing sentiment among some progressive Democrats who have called for fundamental reforms to immigration enforcement agencies. However, with Republicans controlling Congress and immigration remaining a divisive issue among voters, substantial changes to DHS funding or operations appear unlikely in the immediate future.

When contacted by Fox News Digital, the Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Representative Johnson’s statements.

The incident occurs against a backdrop of ongoing tensions at the southern border, where immigration enforcement policies have become increasingly militarized in recent years. Critics argue that aggressive tactics have led to human rights concerns, while supporters maintain that such measures are necessary for national security.

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, both parties are likely to intensify their messaging around immigration, with Republicans focusing on border security and Democrats increasingly highlighting concerns about enforcement tactics and humanitarian considerations.