December 11th, 2025

Linn Dems urge senators, reps to strongly oppose
​any new Oregon ICE detention facilities 

Ben Watts

Dec. 11, 2025
Dear Senator Merkley, Senator Wyden, Congresswoman Bynum and Congresswoman Hoyle,  
  On behalf of the Linn County Democrats, I am writing to urge you to strongly and immediately oppose the placement of any new ICE detention facility anywhere along the coast or anywhere else in Oregon.
  As you know, there is a complete lack of transparency from the Department of Homeland Security on their facility planning for ICE agents and detainees. We appreciate the effort from our elected leaders in response to the news about a potential ICE facility at the Newport Airport.  We support your continued efforts as we learn more about new potential sites they seek to use to lodge those seized under the guise of immigration enforcement.  
  It is disturbing that there is no transparency about the plan for a detention center and no opportunity for our local leaders, let alone the public, to be informed or have input.  It only underscores that the location and operation of ICE detention camps in Oregon will further jeopardize the safety and well-being of our families, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. 
  The prospect of an increased ICE presence in our communities is deeply disturbing. Here in Oregon and across the country, anonymous masked “agents” have already taken moms, dads, and even children from their homes, places of work, and off of sidewalks while on their way to school. 
  News about current facilities has included reports of overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and lack of food, water, or medical care.  People have been unable to communicate with family or have access to legal counsel.  There seems to be virtually no accountability for what goes on in these camps or for the way people are treated.  There is no indication that any new camps in Oregon would operate any differently.  It is unthinkable that we would tolerate additional such facilities to further inflict these things on our community members, friends and neighbors.
   The just administration of the use of force on behalf of the people requires that those who have that delegated authority are accountable to the people.  Anonymity, deceit, and opposition to collaboration with local leadership and institutions directly oppose this principle, and the individual’s right to due process is being ignored.  Such actions contradict our American values and are a grave threat to our way of life.  
  Thank you for the work you continue to do on behalf of Oregonians.
   Sincerely, 
   Ben Watts
​   Chair, Linn County Democrats

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