‘Catch of the day’: Trump launches new ICE immigration crackdown in Maine

In January 2026, the Trump administration initiated "Operation Catch of the Day," a new immigration enforcement operation in Maine. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the raids began on Tuesday. A Trump administration spokesperson suggested the operation was a political response to Maine Governor Janet Mills's stance on immigration. Rumors also suggest Maine was targeted due to its Somali American population, which Trump has repeatedly denounced. This follows similar immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota in December, sparked by a fraud scandal involving some members of the Somali community.

Increased ICE activity in Maine is causing anxiety within immigrant communities. The Trump administration is focusing its deportation efforts on Maine, despite the state having a relatively small population of undocumented immigrants. The Department of Homeland Security has named the operation "Catch of the Day." This action is particularly impacting African refugees residing in Maine's largest cities. Mayor Mark Dion held a news conference in Portland on January 21, 2026, addressing the increased ICE presence.