Florida Democratic US Senate candidate Angie Nixon has accused Republicans of "literally trying to kill" Black Americans and described US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as a "weaponized paramilitary force" designed to "terrorize" minority communities. The claims prompted a swift rebuttal from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which denied that ICE engages in racial profiling and rejected Nixon's characterisation of its enforcement activities. The exchange highlights the deepening rhetorical divide over immigration enforcement and race in America ahead of Florida's Senate race.

DHS issued its response on a Friday, directly countering Nixon's accusations as she campaigns for the Democratic nomination. Nixon, described as a far-left figure, has also drawn attention for other stances, including defending drag shows as "wholesome" entertainment for children. The dispute forms part of wider ongoing debates in US politics over ICE's conduct and its treatment of minority communities under the current administration.