State Representative Enrique Sanchez, recently known for multiple DUI arrests and unauthorized late-night gatherings, stirred controversy Thursday by denouncing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on social media. He called ICE agents “Nazi thugs” and vowed retaliation against what he described as their terrorizing of his constituents. Sanchez posted on X, “It will be soon the day that I confront these Nazi ICE thugs in person for terrorizing our communities. It will be a day of reckoning and no going back.”

The Department of Homeland Security quickly responded through spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin, who warned Sanchez against any confrontation. She quote-posted his comment, saying, “Cowards like this Rhode Island State Rep hide behind their keyboards and threaten the brave men and women of ICE. If you lay a hand on ICE law enforcement we will arrest you and you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

Sanchez’s remarks followed weeks of criticizing ICE on social media, including condemning what he called the “kidnapping of a Providence neighbor” by “Nazi Gestapo ICE thugs.” His comments drew bipartisan condemnation, gaining national attention with Fox News labeling them “heinous” and an insult to immigration officers.

Even Democratic Governor Dan McKee publicly rebuked Sanchez’s outburst, emphasizing the lack of support Sanchez would find if he tried to confront ICE agents directly. Meanwhile, State Rep. Charlene Lima of Cranston voiced support for local law enforcement partnering with ICE to protect communities.

“If I was mayor or governor, I would be mandating law enforcement must help ICE to keep our communities safer,” Lima said. She added that Sanchez is “very genuine in his feelings, but very misguided” in defending criminals instead of protecting the community.