A rising star in Trump’s immigration enforcement apparatus abandons her federal post to challenge a decades-long Democratic stronghold, signaling a bold conservative offensive in swing districts nationwide.
Young Conservative Takes on Establishment Democrat
Madison Sheahan announced her resignation from ICE on January 15, 2026, launching an immediate congressional campaign against Rep. Marcy Kaptur in Ohio’s 9th District. The 29-year-old former deputy director brings nearly a year of high-profile immigration enforcement experience to challenge Kaptur, who has held the seat since 1983. Federal law enforcement sources confirmed the internal announcement occurred that morning, with Sheahan’s campaign website going live simultaneously. Her candidacy represents a direct challenge to entrenched Democratic power in a district that shifted toward Trump in 2024.
NEW: ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan is resigning after less than a year in the role. The longtime ally of Kristi Noem is now planning a run for Congress in Ohio.https://t.co/t5o14ngGwq
— Phillip Nieto (@nieto_phillip) January 15, 2026
Sheahan’s campaign emphasizes her role in what she calls ICE’s “historic transformation” under the Trump administration. Her website touts achievements in “border security, interior enforcement, and rule of law” with the slogan “No Excuses. Let’s Get It Done.” The Ohio native grew up on a horse farm in Curtice and graduated from Ohio State University in 2019 with degrees in public affairs and agri-business. Her rapid political ascent included roles as political director for South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem and executive director of the South Dakota GOP before joining federal service.
ICE Expansion Under Conservative Leadership
During Sheahan’s tenure as deputy director, ICE underwent massive expansion that conservatives view as essential for protecting American communities. The agency grew from 20,000 employees with a $10 billion budget to over 30,000 employees with an $85 billion budget, according to campaign materials. This growth included hiring 12,000 officers in just 180 days, demonstrating the Trump administration’s commitment to interior enforcement. Sheahan oversaw major operations like “Operation Midway Blitz” on October 30, 2025, showcasing the agency’s enhanced capabilities under conservative leadership.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem appointed Sheahan to the deputy director position on March 9, 2025, recognizing her proven track record in state-level conservative politics. Her previous role as Louisiana Secretary of Wildlife and Fisheries included forming a Special Operations Group and responding to the 2025 New Orleans truck attack. These experiences positioned her as a natural fit for federal law enforcement leadership during a critical period of immigration policy implementation. Her resignation creates a significant leadership gap at ICE during ongoing enforcement priorities.
Thank you, President @realDonaldTrump and @Sec_Noem, for your leadership and steadfast commitment to Defend the Homeland.
As I depart @ICEgov today, I am proud of the work we have done to protect American families and I am grateful for the brave men and women serving at ICE. pic.twitter.com/x9vgAe39Qf
— ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan (@ICEDeputy) January 15, 2026
Strategic Challenge in Swing District
Ohio’s 9th District presents a strategic opportunity for conservative gains, despite Kaptur’s long tenure and 2024 re-election victory. Trump won many counties within the district in 2024, indicating shifting voter preferences toward conservative policies on immigration and economic issues. Sheahan’s campaign focuses on “protecting American jobs, paychecks, and values,” directly appealing to voters concerned about illegal immigration’s impact on working families. Her law enforcement background provides credibility on border security issues that resonate with district voters frustrated by Democratic policies.
The timing of Sheahan’s candidacy announcement signals confidence in conservative momentum heading into the 2026 midterms. Her youth and professional accomplishments contrast sharply with Kaptur’s decades-long Washington establishment presence, potentially appealing to voters seeking fresh conservative leadership. The campaign represents broader Republican efforts to recruit strong candidates with Trump administration experience for competitive districts nationwide. Her ICE credentials directly address voter concerns about immigration enforcement that Democrats have consistently failed to prioritize effectively.
Sources:
ICE Deputy Director Resigns from Agency to Run for Congress – Fox News
ICE Deputy Director Resigns from Agency to Run for Congress – WRGA News
ICE Deputy Director Resigns Agency Run Congress – WHMI