Gov. Bill Lee Addresses Nashville ICE Raids

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WKRN) – On Tuesday, News 2 team members traveled to Memphis to interview Governor Bill Lee after a “ public safety operation featuring interactions between Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and troopers from the Tennessee Highway Patrol over the weekend.

On Sunday, three chartered buses departed from a Homeland Security facility following reports that THP officers had carried out numerous traffic stops "in zones known for severe accidents and alleged gang-related incidents." Lee visited Memphis on Tuesday for the inauguration of a newly constructed roundabout at the intersection of Interstate 55 and Crump Boulevard.

Legislators respond to ICE actions in South Nashville

Lee informed News 2 that he will keep backing President Donald Trump’s initiatives aimed at tackling illegal and criminal operations.

"As we've mentioned since the start, we aim to collaborate willingly with the federal government to get rid of criminals on our streets. To the extent that they take action, we wish to be involved," Lee stated.

Lee asserted that the state had prior knowledge of the ICE operation and would keep providing support for such initiatives.

I believe everyone understands— including the nation—that during the last four years, numerous undesirable individuals have entered our country through the borders, engaging in drug trafficking, gang-related activities, and various criminal behaviors," stated Lee. "President Trump explicitly aimed to eliminate these people from our country. The American electorate chose him for this purpose, and the current ICE operations taking place and previously conducted in Nashville align with this objective. This initiative focuses on clearing criminals off our streets.

Governor Bill Lee has issued his first veto to overturn a legislation aimed at simplifying the process for denying parole.

News 2 inquired of Lee whether he was aware of specific people who might have been aboard the buses observed departing from the ICE facility, or if he had knowledge about their destination. Lee directed News 2 to contact ICE instead. Consequently, News 2 has contacted ICE seeking a statement.

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