Stephen Miller's heated meeting with ICE leaders sparks staff shakeup

White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller reportedly "eviscerated" senior U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials in a private meeting for low deportation numbers. Miller allegedly criticized their leadership and questioned their efforts, demanding higher arrest rates. This meeting occurred amidst a broader White House push to increase deportations and fulfill President Trump's promises. Three current and former federal immigration officials described a tense atmosphere, with some feeling monitored and demoralized. One ICE official defended their focus on criminal immigrants, as per public directives, but Miller reportedly insisted on broader arrests. Following the meeting, ICE announced a leadership realignment, with two high-ranking officials stepping down or being replaced. The White House maintains its commitment to aggressive deportation, while an ICE spokesman disputed some characterizations of Miller's remarks, noting recent high arrest numbers. Despite the pressure, officials suggest internal coordination and resources, like detention space, remain challenges for ICE. The proposed legislation aims to significantly increase detention capacity, which could aid deportation efforts if operational issues are addressed.