Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to Resign by May End
Washington (AP) — Todd Lyons, the acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), known for his involvement in President Donald Trump’s mass deportation policies, will step down at the end of May, federal officials confirmed on Thursday.
Homeland Security Secretary Recognizes Lyons’ Contributions
Mark Wayne Mullin, the Secretary of Homeland Security, announced Lyons’ resignation, praising him as a strong leader who has contributed to making America safer. Mullin indicated that Lyons’ final day in office will be May 31.
Resignation Details Remain Unclear
“We wish him all the best in his next endeavor in the private sector,” Mullin stated. The Department of Homeland Security has not yet responded to inquiries from The Associated Press regarding the reasons for Lyons’ resignation.
Leadership During a Critical Period for ICE
Appointed as acting director in March 2025, Lyons led ICE during a pivotal phase in the Trump administration’s immigration reform efforts. Under his leadership, ICE secured significant funding from Congress, which facilitated an expansion in hiring, detention practices, and immigration arrests to fulfill the administration’s directives.
Controversies and Public Backlash
Lyons’ tenure has not been without controversy. The agency was central to several high-profile immigration enforcement actions in cities like Chicago and Minneapolis, actions that drew intense criticism following the deaths of two American protesters at the hands of federal agents. Stephen Miller, the acting chief of staff and a key architect of immigration policy, commended Lyons as a dedicated leader. In a statement, Miller remarked that Lyons’ efforts had contributed to saving countless American lives.
Ongoing Political Tension Surrounding ICE
The future leadership of ICE remains uncertain, as the next director will likely face ongoing scrutiny amidst rising tensions in Congress. Democratic lawmakers have been vocal in demanding more oversight of immigration enforcement before agreeing to reinstate standard funding for the Department of Homeland Security.
Challenging Environment for ICE
In a recent subcommittee hearing, Lyons joined two other immigration officials to advocate for ICE’s budget, but he faced persistent questioning about the agency’s operations. The resignation also coincides with a transition in leadership within the Department of Homeland Security, following President Trump’s dismissal of former Secretary Kristi Noem, who directed the agency through significant policy changes.
Public Sentiment and Controversial Policies
During Lyons’ leadership, public opinion of ICE deteriorated significantly. A recent AP-NORC poll revealed that a majority of U.S. adults held negative views of the agency. Lyons has responded to inquiries regarding contentious incidents, including the shooting deaths of Renee Good and Alex Preti, but has refrained from offering apologies for how some officials characterized Good. He stated, “We would welcome the opportunity to speak privately with the family, but we will not comment on an active investigation.” He has acknowledged viewing footage related to Preti’s shooting but has withheld comments due to the ongoing investigation.
Career Background and Controversial Directives
Lyons has been with ICE since 2007, starting as an immigration enforcement officer in Texas. He notably signed a controversial memo granting federal immigration agents extensive powers to enter homes and carry out arrests without a judge’s warrant. Tom Homan, President Trump’s border czar, characterized Lyons as a respected and capable leader who has served ICE diligently throughout his tenure.
