ATLANTA (September 4, 2025) — Today, Sen. Kenya Wicks released a statement regarding the State of Georgia’s recent decision to deploy the Georgia National Guard to support ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) operations.
“I cannot stay silent as our state misuses the Georgia National Guard beyond its lawful purpose. As a retired Army officer who proudly served this nation for 30 years, I know the dangerous precedent associated with deploying our state’s National Guard to assist ICE. This decision is misguided, dangerous and unconstitutional.
Georgia’s National Guard should not be deployed to carry out a political agenda in a nation known for welcoming immigrants and offering them the prospect of freedom and opportunity. The Guard’s oath remains the same: to defend our nation against foreign and domestic threats and to respond in times of true emergency. Using them against immigrant families is a misuse of military force that tears at the fabric of who we are as a nation.
I spent three decades serving our country because I believe in its promise of liberty, equality and opportunity. I fought overseas so our people could live free at home. To see the uniform misused to senselessly round up families is not just a policy disagreement but a betrayal of what the uniform stands for.
As someone who has worn the uniform, I urge us to remember that the strength of America comes from upholding the Constitution, respecting our freedoms and protecting the dignity of every person who calls this land home.”
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Sen. Kenya Wicks represents the 34th Senate District, which includes portions of Clayton and Fayette Counties. She may be reached by email at Kenya.Wicks@senate.ga.gov.
For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.