Madison Sheahan, the second-highest official at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has announced her departure from the agency to launch a bid for Congress.

Two U.S. officials disclosed the move to CBS News on Thursday, while Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed Sheahan’s exit and named Charles Wall, a veteran ICE attorney with 14 years of experience, as her replacement in the role of deputy director.

The transition at ICE has sparked discussions about leadership changes and the agency’s direction under the Trump administration’s push for heightened immigration enforcement.

Sheahan’s Rise and Departure from ICE

Sheahan, a close ally of Secretary Noem, was appointed ICE deputy director in March during a significant overhaul of the agency’s leadership, CBS News reported.

This restructuring came as the administration intensified efforts to increase immigration arrests and deportations across the nation.

At just 28 years old, Sheahan’s rapid ascent drew frustration from some ICE officials who questioned her lack of substantial law enforcement experience.

Background and Connections in Focus

Prior to ICE, Sheahan served as secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and earlier as an aide to Noem during her time as South Dakota governor.

Her deep ties to Noem were evident in the secretary’s glowing endorsement, praising Sheahan’s potential on the congressional stage.

Noem stated, “Madison Sheahan is a work horse, strong executor, and terrific leader who led the men and women of ICE to achieve the American people's mandate to target, arrest, and deport criminal illegal aliens.”

ICE’s Mission and Public Backlash

ICE, tasked with handling deportations and immigration arrests within the country’s interior, has been central to the administration’s firm stance on unauthorized migration.

Thousands of ICE and Border Patrol agents have been deployed to major cities, a move met with criticism from local leaders and residents who view the tactics as overly aggressive.

While the mission to secure borders resonates with many, the heavy-handed approach has left communities on edge, raising questions about balance in enforcement policies.

Sheahan’s Farewell and Wall’s Arrival

Upon her exit, Sheahan shared a message on X to ICE staff, expressing pride in having “strengthened” the agency and “restored its purpose.”

Charles Wall, recently the lead lawyer at ICE, steps into the deputy director role with a robust background, promising continuity amid the agency’s high-stakes operations.