What Next | Daily News and Analysis The People Joining ICE
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Oct 9, 2025 
Robert Klemko, a Washington Post reporter focused on law enforcement and criminal justice reform, sheds light on ICE's controversial recruitment practices. He discusses the urgency behind attracting new agents through lowered standards and the implications for public safety. Klemko reveals alarming trends at recruitment fairs, including troubling attitudes among applicants and the dangers of miscommunications due to inadequate training. With increased funding, he warns of the risks of a rapidly growing, ideologically driven agency, potentially paving the way for a more confrontational future.
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Recruitment Framed As War
- DHS frames ICE recruiting as a war to attract people who "want to get their hands dirty."
- That marketing leans into violent, nationalist themes to shape applicant mindset.
Job Fair Tension In Arlington
- Robert Klemko attended a DHS job fair in Arlington, Texas and spoke with attendees and protesters.
- Applicants largely ignored protesters and laughed, showing little engagement with criticism.
Diverse Applicants, Many Veterans
- The applicant pool at the fair was demographically diverse, including many Hispanic applicants and veterans.
- About 30% of current deportation officers are veterans, and many recruits have military backgrounds.