ICE seeks $38.3B to expand detention, sparking backlash over costs, transparency, and local opposition.

ICE is seeking $38.3 billion to expand detention capacity by converting warehouses into facilities, despite already holding tens of thousands, sparking backlash over high purchase prices, lack of transparency, and community opposition. In Georgia, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, federal buys far exceeded appraised values, prompting criticism from Sen. Cory Booker and local officials concerned about infrastructure strain and rushed acquisitions. Critics argue the spending bypasses standard procedures and may target rural areas to overcome resistance. Meanwhile, a Maryland company sued Howard County over its ban on private immigration detention centers, claiming the move violates federal authority.