Vance Defends ICE Memo Authorizing Forced Home Entries Without Judicial Warrants
On January 22, 2026, Vice President JD Vance defended a leaked internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) memo that authorizes agents to forcefully enter private homes using only an administrative warrant rather than a judicial warrant signed by a judge.
Key Details of the Controversy
Administrative vs. Judicial Warrants: Vance argued that immigration laws can be enforced under administrative orders issued by officials or administrative law judges. Critics, including Senator Richard Blumenthal, contend this violates Fourth Amendment protections, as administrative warrants typically require consent for home entry and do not carry the weight of a judge-signed judicial warrant.
Forcible Entry Policy: The memo (dated May 12, 2025) permits agents to use "necessary and reasonable force" to enter a residence between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. if an individual with a final order of removal refuses admittance after agents announce themselves.
Whistleblower Disclosure: The document was brought to light by two whistleblowers through Whistleblower Aid, who revealed that new ICE trainees were being instructed to follow this guidance despite it contradicting standard written training materials.
Context in Minneapolis
Vance's defense occurred during a visit to Minneapolis, which has become a focal point of anti-deportation protests following the January 7, 2026, fatal shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good by an ICE agent.
Insurrection Act: Vance stated the Insurrection Act is not needed "right now" to quell local unrest, despite previous threats from President Trump.
Local Cooperation: He blamed "far-left agitators" and a lack of cooperation from Minnesota officials for the "chaos" surrounding recent raids, including the detention of a 5-year-old boy.
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