Homeland Security's Shifting Focus: Protecting or Policing?

In 2002, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was born out of necessity. The U. S. was still healing from the 9/11 attacks, and the need for a unified agency to tackle terrorism and protect the nation was clear. This new department would include Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection, focusing on safeguarding borders and enforcing immigration laws. Fast forward to today, and the DHS's role has become a hot topic. Critics argue that the agency's focus has shifted dramatically. Instead of protecting the country from external threats, some see it as being used to target domestic dissent. The sight of ICE and Border Patrol officers in tactical gear, facing off against protesters in cities like Minneapolis, Portland, and Washington, has sparked controversy. Videos shared on social media have painted a picture of a federal force clashing with American citizens, raising questions about the DHS's true purpose.Mayor Keith Wilson of Portland, Oregon, a Democrat, expressed his concerns, stating that the DHS was created to protect Americans, not to turn against them. This sentiment reflects a broader debate about the balance between national security and civil liberties. The DHS's actions have left many wondering if the agency is still fulfilling its original mission or if it has evolved into something else entirely. The DHS's role in domestic affairs has become a contentious issue. While some argue that the agency is simply enforcing federal laws, others see it as overstepping its bounds. The debate highlights the ongoing tension between national security priorities and the rights of American citizens.