Erwin Gratz

In a news release, Collins says Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told her the surge of ICE agents that began recently is over and the agency will continue normal operations.

Collins had asked Noem earlier to pause its surge in Maine and Minnesota.

Collins told Maine Public she received multiple calls from constituents expressing fear and anger about the ICE operation.

Maine Democratic Governor Janet Mills, in a statement, writes ending the ICE surge, quote, does not end the pain and suffering they've inflicted on communities across our state, unquote.

Lewiston, Maine, Mayor Carl Scheline, whose city was a target of the enhanced immigration crackdown, called the Collins announcement good news.

He added, quote, ICE operations in Maine have failed to improve public safety, unquote.

For NPR News, I'm Erwin Gratz in Portland, Maine.