ICE Agents to Flood Virginia Streets: Border Czar Warning

RICHMOND, Virginia, January 8, 2026 – Virginia Governor Abigail spanberger’s decision to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement has triggered a sharp response from border security officials, who warn of a meaningful increase in ICE presence across the state and other “sanctuary cities.” The escalating tension highlights a growing divide between state and federal authorities on immigration policy.

Border Czar Vows Increased enforcement in Virginia

Federal officials are preparing to deploy additional agents in response to the governor’s executive order.

• Governor Spanberger signed an order revoking Virginia’s obligation to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
• Former police officer Tom Homan, a border czar, pledged to dedicate more resources to Virginia.
• Homan intends to replicate enforcement strategies used in New York, California, Oregon, and Illinois.

Tom Homan, a 64-year-old former police officer, promised increased ICE resources for Virginia following the governor’s executive order. He indicated a strategy mirroring successful approaches in other states with similar policies, including New York, California, Oregon, and Illinois, where thousands of immigrants deemed risky have been deported.

“I said it from day one: the thousands of agents we are adding are going to flood the sanctuary cities,” Homan stated during an appearance on the Ruthless podcast. “We have to do it because you created a problem when you made some threats to public safety in the streets.”

Governor Abigail Spanberger’s first executive order revoked Virginia’s cooperation with ICE. (Credit: Steve Helber / AP)

Homan expressed disappointment with what he perceives as a shift in messaging from Governor Spanberger, a former intelligence officer. He suggested her stance may have been motivated by political expediency.

“I remember her campaign ads.’I’m a law enforcement officer. I rescued children from sex trafficking’. I’ve seen the ads.She stopped being a law enforcement officer and became a politician.Where are all those commercials she made about supporting law enforcement officers?” he emphasized.

Pro tip– ICE’s enforcement priorities focus on individuals deemed threats to national security, public safety, and border security. Thes priorities are subject to change based on administration policy.

What was Governor Spanberger’s previous stance on ICE cooperation? She campaigned on a platform that largely signaled a willingness to cooperate with ICE, and is the first female governor in Virginia history.

Homan anticipates friction with the governor’s administration, but remains resolute. “I hope we can work together, but this doesn’t look good. They’re not going to stop us. They can stand by and watch. what a shame, but they are not going to prevent us from fulfilling this mission!” he warned.

Keep reading:

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