Source: Gov Bob Ferguson's Office
OLYMPIA, Wash. — Gov. Bob Ferguson and Attorney General Nick Brown on Wednesday condemned recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in Minnesota and warned that Washington is preparing for similar federal actions that they say would violate constitutional protections.
At a press conference in Olympia, Ferguson and Brown criticized a Department of Homeland Security memo that directs ICE agents to force entry into homes without judicial warrants. They said the directive violates the Constitution and increases the risk of violence.
Their remarks came as immigration enforcement draws scrutiny in Washington, including recent federal operations in Whatcom County.
State leaders criticize ICE tactics
Ferguson accused ICE of pushing beyond legal limits and said the state will respond through the courts when it can.
“ICE is completely and totally out of control,” Ferguson said. “Attorney General Brown and I are focused on preparing, to the fullest extent possible, for a similar escalation by ICE here — against our will — in Washington state.”
Ferguson said Washington will use every available tool to reduce harm and protect residents. He urged Washingtonians to speak out peacefully and support their neighbors.
Brown said federal operations have traumatized communities and weakened public trust.
“Minnesota is less safe because of the federal presence in that state,” Brown said. “America is weaker because of the operations in Minnesota.”
State officials cite deaths in Minnesota
State officials also referenced two fatal ICE encounters in Minnesota.
They said ICE agents killed U.S. citizen Alex Pretti earlier this week. They also said ICE agents shot and killed Renee Good on Jan. 7.
Whatcom County enforcement adds local context
Recent federal activity out of a new facility in Ferndale in Whatcom County has already drawn attention in northern Washington. A small group of protestors often setup signs and protest weekly outside the facility on Pacific Avenue.
Earlier this month, U.S. Border Patrol and ICE agents arrested three undocumented immigrants during targeted operations in Lynden, according to a Border Patrol social media post. Border Patrol said one of the individuals was wanted on a homicide charge in Mexico.
Border Patrol described the group as “criminal aliens” hiding in the United States. The agency said all three remain in federal custody and that authorities will prosecute and deport them.
Federal officials did not release names, arrest dates, or court details. Border Patrol also did not say whether U.S. prosecutors filed charges or which jurisdiction will handle the cases.
The agency has not disclosed how long the individuals lived in the region. It also has not explained what information led agents to locate them.
Lynden sits near multiple border crossings and often sees federal activity tied to cross-border investigations.
Washington outlines a response plan
Ferguson outlined five steps the state is taking to prepare for a possible ICE escalation in Washington.
Ferguson and Brown signed a joint letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. They called the Minnesota operation disturbing and urged DHS to withdraw ICE agents and de-escalate. Ferguson said the DHS memo on home entries violates the Constitution. The letter says Washington will pursue legal options to oppose unconstitutional ICE conduct in the state.
Ferguson also expanded internal coordination. He said the chief of the Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance, Sarah Peterson, will attend cabinet meetings starting Wednesday. He said the move will speed coordination across agencies.
Ferguson said he recently hired David Kim as a senior advisor on immigrant and refugee policy.
Ferguson said he met with Adjutant General Gent Welsh to discuss potential scenarios, including National Guard support focused on public safety during a federal escalation.
He also said he is meeting with partners across government to coordinate a statewide response, including a meeting Wednesday with statewide elected officials.
Bills target impersonation and workplace notice
Ferguson also highlighted legislation that aims to reduce harm from enforcement actions and increase accountability.
He supports Senate Bill 5855, sponsored by Sen. Javier Valdez, which would bar law enforcement from wearing face coverings. The bill has passed the Senate Law and Justice Committee.
Ferguson said he is also partnering with Sen. Adrian Cortes and Rep. Edwin Obras on legislation that would prohibit non-law enforcement from making, providing, or possessing law enforcement badges or insignia. State officials cited reporting that found a surge in ICE impersonation cases in 2025.
Brown said he is partnering with Sen. Rebecca Saldaña and Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self on the Immigrant Worker Protection Act. The proposal would require employers to notify employees when the federal government requests employment eligibility information.
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