Liberal author Stephen King openly criticized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Friday, describing the agency as the “American Gestapo” in a post on the social media platform X. By drawing this comparison, King highlighted concerns about what he views as aggressive and unjust actions by ICE, framing the discussion within a broader historical context.
King’s statement comes amid growing national debates over ICE’s enforcement tactics, particularly following a controversial incident in Minneapolis. King, known for his progressive stances and with a substantial online following, invoked the Gestapo—the notorious secret police force of Nazi Germany responsible for suppressing political dissidents without due process—to emphasize his condemnation of ICE’s role.
Historical Context Behind ‘Gestapo’ Comparison
The Gestapo, or Secret State Police of Nazi Germany established in 1933, was infamous for arresting political opponents and persecuting perceived enemies without legal protections. By likening ICE to this force, King tapped into a powerful analogy that evokes fears about unchecked government power and abuses of civil rights. His comparison is part of a pattern among public figures who have expressed alarm over federal enforcement activities.
Broader Criticism from Public Figures and Officials
Stephen King is not alone in his denunciation of ICE. During a live show in New Jersey, musician Bruce Springsteen also condemned the agency, urging ICE to vacate Minneapolis and denouncing what he termed “Gestapo tactics” used by heavily armed masked federal personnel. Springsteen emphasized the importance of democracy, law, and the right to protest peacefully in his remarks to the crowd.
“If you believe in democracy, in liberty, if you believe that truth still matters, that it’s worth speaking out, that it is worth fighting for, if you believe in the power of the law and no one stands above it, if you stand against heavily armed masked federal troops invading American cities and using Gestapo tactics against our fellow citizens, if you believe you don’t deserve to be murdered for exercising your American right to protest, then send a message to this president,” Bruce Springsteen, musician
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also referenced the Gestapo when criticizing ICE’s conduct. Speaking at the University of Minnesota Law School’s graduation, Walz described ICE as “Donald Trump’s modern-day Gestapo” amid rising tensions in Minneapolis following a fatal shooting.
“Donald Trump’s modern-day Gestapo is scooping folks up off the streets,” Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota
Incident in Minneapolis Spurs Outcry and Celebrity Support
The scrutiny of ICE intensified after the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis earlier this month. The shooting occurred during an alleged encounter when Good reportedly swerved her vehicle toward the officer. Good’s death has triggered protests in Minneapolis and other cities nationwide, with local leaders, including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, condemning ICE’s handling of the situation.
In defense, the Department of Homeland Security characterized the officer’s actions as self-defense and described Good’s conduct prior to the shooting as “an act of domestic terrorism.” These statements have done little to quell public anger and have instead intensified calls for accountability and reform.
Several prominent entertainers have publicly expressed solidarity with protesters and criticism toward ICE. Celebrities such as Mark Ruffalo, Wanda Sykes, Jean Smart, Ariana Grande, and Natasha Lyonne have been seen wearing pins with slogans like “Be Good” and “ICE Out,” including during high-profile events such as the Golden Globes.
Ongoing Debate Over ICE’s Role and Future Implications
Stephen King’s sharp rebuke and the parallel condemnations from artists and political leaders illustrate the deepening national divide over ICE’s enforcement methods and the broader immigration policy under the Trump administration. The agency’s portrayal as a modern-day Gestapo by multiple voices reflects widespread anxiety and frustration over aggressive federal intervention in local communities.
As protests continue and public scrutiny mounts, attention is increasingly focused on how ICE, law enforcement, and elected officials will respond to calls for reform. The incident in Minneapolis has become a flashpoint, highlighting the tensions between federal authority and civil liberties, and it remains uncertain how these disputes will shape immigration enforcement practices and public trust moving forward.
