Libertarian Party of Wisconsin Calls ICE Detention of Milwaukee Mosque Leader a Threat to Free Speech

Madison, WI – June 19, 2026 – The Libertarian Party of Wisconsin welcomes the federal court order releasing Salah Sarsour, president of the Islamic Society of Milwaukee, from ICE detention, and condemns the abuse of federal power his case represents.

U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon found that Sarsour raised a substantial claim that he was targeted for speaking in favor of Palestinian rights. That should alarm every American, regardless of religion, ethnicity, immigration status, or political viewpoint.

“Free speech is not a privilege granted by politicians or federal agencies,” said Reese Wood, Chair of the Libertarian Party of Wisconsin. “It is a natural right protected by the First Amendment. When the federal government detains a lawful permanent resident after decades in this country and then hides behind foreign policy claims, every Wisconsinite should see the danger.”

The Libertarian Party of Wisconsin believes government must never punish peaceful speech, religious association, or political dissent. Immigration enforcement, like every other government power, must be constrained by due process, transparency, and strict constitutional limits.

This case is especially troubling because Sarsour was reportedly held for 80 days, faced serious health concerns while detained, and was released only after judicial intervention. No government agency should be trusted with unchecked power over a person’s liberty, medical care, or ability to speak freely.

Wisconsin deserves leaders who defend constitutional rights consistently, not only when the person targeted shares their politics or faith. The Libertarian Party of Wisconsin calls for a full accounting of ICE’s actions in this case and urges Wisconsin’s congressional delegation to rein in federal detention powers, protect due process, and defend the free speech rights of all people within our borders.

For more info on the Libertarian Party of Wisconsin, and read its principles and platform, please visit www.lpwi.org.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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