New Hampshire Senate Candidate Faces Backlash Over ICE Defunding Remarks
Karishma Manzur, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in New Hampshire, has ignited a significant political controversy following her recent television appearance where she called for the defunding of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and raised questions about potential extremist links among its agents.
Controversial Interview Sparks Social Media Firestorm
During her appearance on WMUR's CloseUp program, Manzur made several provocative statements that quickly circulated online. The candidate, who is challenging Congressman Chris Pappas for the Democratic nomination, stated unequivocally: "We should absolutely defund ICE. Yes." She went further to challenge the agency's fundamental identity, asserting that "ICE is not law enforcement. ICE is acting like a paramilitary force."
The interview clip drew immediate backlash across social media platforms, with critics questioning how a foreign-born candidate could advocate for defunding federal agencies. One particularly viral post questioned: "She was born in Bangladesh, comes here, and wants to..." highlighting the contentious nature of the debate surrounding her immigration background and policy positions.
Allegations of Paramilitary Behavior and Community Intimidation
Manzur elaborated on her criticism by describing what she characterized as aggressive ICE tactics. "They're going in fatigues into communities, terrorizing these communities, grabbing people out of their cars, knocking on doors, asking, using threatening language," she claimed during the interview. "That's not law enforcement."
The candidate specifically referenced viral videos from Minnesota that she said demonstrated "thuggish behavior" rather than legitimate police work. "When I look at ICE and the videos that are coming out of Minnesota, that's not police. That's not law enforcement," she emphasized, drawing a sharp distinction between what she views as acceptable law enforcement practices and ICE's current operations.
Questions About Agent Identities and Extremist Connections
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Manzur's remarks came when she questioned the backgrounds and affiliations of ICE agents. "So actually, let's talk about who those agents are. Do we even know who they are?" she asked rhetorically during the exchange.
She raised specific concerns about agents concealing their identities and potential extremist connections: "Why are they always covering up their faces? Are they January 6th insurrectionists? Are they Proud Boys? Are they coming out of some extremist group? This is very concerning." These comments have generated particular controversy, with critics accusing her of making unsubstantiated allegations about federal law enforcement personnel.
Proposed Budget Reallocation and Policy Alternatives
Beyond her criticism, Manzur outlined what she believes should happen if ICE were defunded. She suggested that the agency's substantial budget should be redirected to other law enforcement entities. "I think those $30 billion that is being given to ICE should be given to our town police, our city police, our state police as well as the federal police," she proposed.
The candidate made a distinction between ICE and Customs and Border Protection, indicating that while she supports defunding ICE, she believes border protection agencies should receive appropriate funding. This nuanced position reflects her broader progressive platform, which includes:
- Universal healthcare initiatives
- Campaign finance reform to limit big money in politics
- Comprehensive immigration policy changes
Candidate Background and Political Context
Karishma Manzur brings a unique profile to the New Hampshire Senate race. Born in Bangladesh, she holds a PhD in biochemistry and molecular biology and has built her campaign around progressive policy positions. Her scientific background and immigrant experience have become central elements of both her appeal to supporters and the criticism from opponents.
The controversy comes at a crucial time in the 2026 election cycle, highlighting the ongoing national debate about immigration enforcement, federal agency funding, and the appropriate boundaries of political discourse regarding law enforcement institutions. As the Democratic primary approaches, Manzur's comments have positioned her as a distinctly progressive voice in a competitive field, while also drawing significant scrutiny to her policy proposals and rhetorical approach.
