Donald Trump’s second term has been unpredictable. And this is yet another instance of it.
Because a sudden Trump administration resignation is dropping jaws.
Bold Move: ICE Deputy Director Steps Up to Fight for Ohio
Madison Sheahan, the Deputy Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has made a decisive and inspiring choice. She has resigned from her high-ranking position to run for Congress as a Republican in Ohio’s 9th Congressional District.
This competitive seat, which includes Toledo and much of northwest Ohio, has been held by Democrat Rep. Marcy Kaptur since 1983.
Recent redistricting and shifting voter trends have made the district more favorable for Republicans. The Cook Political Report now rates it as “lean Republican” heading into 2026. Sheahan, an Ohio native and graduate of Ohio State University, announced her campaign on the very day her resignation became effective.
In a strong video message, she positioned herself as a no-nonsense conservative focused on delivering real results for the people of northwest Ohio.
Delivering Results on Border Security and Backing Trump’s Vision
During her time at ICE under President Trump, Sheahan played a key role in advancing tough, effective immigration enforcement. She helped bring on thousands of new ICE agents and supported the deportation of millions of illegal aliens—especially those involved in serious crimes. Her work has directly contributed to safer communities across the country.
In her campaign announcement, Sheahan proudly stood by these accomplishments: “When the call came to help President Trump clean up the dangerous immigration mess, as Deputy Director of ICE, I answered the call.”
She sharply contrasted her record with Kaptur’s long tenure, declaring in her video: “Time and time again, out of touch Marcy Kaptur has failed Northwest Ohio by rejecting millions for the district, increasing costs, and pushing a radical far-left agenda.”
Drawing from her upbringing on her family’s horse farm, Sheahan emphasized accountability: “In Congress, hypocrisy, excuses and failure can earn you a lifetime job. But on my family farm, that would put us out of business.” Her campaign slogan—“No Excuses. Let’s Get It Done”—perfectly captures her straightforward, Trump-aligned approach to border security, economic relief, and defending American values.
Strong Support and a Path to Victory in a Key Race
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who has worked closely with Sheahan and known her for years, gave her a ringing endorsement: “I’ve known her for years, she loves her family, Ohio and her country. She will be a great defender of freedom when she goes to Congress.”
Noem added that Sheahan is “a workhorse, 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. We wish her all the best.”
The National Republican Congressional Committee also expressed enthusiasm. Spokesman Zach Bannon stated: “Northwest Ohio is ready for change.” While Sheahan will face a competitive GOP primary, her proven track record enforcing the law and advancing President Trump’s priorities gives her a clear advantage.
Voters in the district are looking for fresh leadership that prioritizes safety, affordability, and accountability over career politicians. Sheahan’s bold decision to leave a powerful federal role and run for Congress represents exactly the kind of energy and commitment needed to help keep Ohio—and the country—moving in the right direction under Trump’s successful agenda.
