The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued a strong rebuttal to billionaire Tom Steyer’s pledge to imprison its agents, following his unveiling of a manifesto opposing immigration enforcement.

“Tom Steyer, ICE is not a political pawn,” the agency declared on X over the weekend.

Emphasizing their mission, the agency stated, “Our agents and officers are committed to safeguarding this nation from dangerous individuals, including child abusers and cartel affiliates. We invite you to join us in protecting Californians from these persistent dangers.”

Accompanying their remarks was a video featuring acting ICE Director Todd Lyons, addressing past footage from February where Steyer vowed to dismantle the agency. Lyons, who stepped down last Thursday to focus on his family, was featured prominently in the footage.

Lyons criticized Steyer’s statements for contributing to the negative perception of ICE agents and highlighted California’s reluctance to cooperate with federal immigration efforts.

Ironically, ICE’s pushback might enhance Steyer’s standing among California’s Democratic base, who often view the agency unfavorably due to its deportation practices. This conflict could bolster his image as a staunch opponent willing to take drastic measures against ICE.

“To Californians, you ARE the ongoing threat,” Steyer said in response to ICE’s post. “The governor’s most important job is to protect Californians — that includes protecting them from ICE.”

Only a few days ago, Steyer doubled down on his anti-ICE platform. He released a manifesto which stated that not only should ICE be abolished, but it should also be treated like a criminal organization.

He laid out a five-point plan that includes a ban on racial discrimination by ICE agents, authority to the state attorney general to hold ICE leadership accountable, a special unit dedicated towards enforcing ICE-related laws and more legal defense for immigrants.

Despite his signaling, his fellow Democrats in the governor’s race are keen to undermine that anti-ICE reputation.

Many have already attacked numerous times his past investment in a company that now runs immigration detention facilities.

Steyer has repeatedly called his investment a “mistake”, saying that it was a “big wake-up call.” His competitors are telling voters not to buy it.

“Now he’s using those billions to try to convince us he’s seen the light? Californians deserve results – not a billionaire working on a rebrand,” said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan.

Steyer is the Democratic frontrunner in the governor’s race, according to polls, after former congressman Eric Swalwell suspended his campaign due to sexual assault allegations.