Joe Rogan, Notable Supporter of Trump's 2024 Campaign, Compares ICE to the Gestapo: 'Is This What We've Come To?'

Joe Rogan has voiced strong criticism of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), likening its methods to those of the Gestapo during a recent episode of his podcast. This commentary comes more than a year after he publicly endorsed Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential campaign.

On January 13, during a discussion with Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, Rogan articulated his unease regarding ICE's operations. He acknowledged that while many Americans support law enforcement's role in apprehending criminals, there is a growing sentiment that ICE's actions may be unlawful.

“Most people think law enforcement is essential,” Rogan stated, “but many also believe ICE is operating outside the law.” He elaborated on this perspective, suggesting that individuals who enter the U.S. should have the right to remain, criticizing the presence of militarized agents enforcing immigration laws. “We shouldn’t have groups of people in masks roaming the streets, detaining individuals—some of whom are U.S. citizens—without due process,” he added.

Rogan's remarks drew a direct comparison between ICE's demand for identification and the oppressive tactics employed by the Gestapo, the secret police of Nazi Germany known for their brutal enforcement methods. “Are we really going to be the Gestapo? ‘Where’s your papers?’ Is that what we’ve come to?” he questioned, highlighting the moral implications of such enforcement practices.

The scrutiny surrounding Trump's immigration policies has intensified, particularly following viral videos depicting ICE agents using aggressive tactics in public spaces. Reports have surfaced detailing instances where legal residents and citizens were wrongfully detained, alongside tragic incidents like the shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis.

Research from the University of California, Berkeley’s Deportation Data Project reveals alarming statistics: nearly 75,000 individuals arrested by ICE in Trump's first nine months had no prior criminal record. This data, disclosed through a lawsuit against ICE, indicates that about one-third of those apprehended were innocent of any crime, raising questions about the agency's priorities and methods.

Rogan's stance on Trump has evolved over time. While he once distanced himself from the former president, stating he was “not a Trump supporter in any way,” his endorsement in late 2024 marked a significant shift. Following a nearly three-hour podcast conversation with Trump, Rogan took to social media to express his support.

“If it wasn’t for [Elon Musk], we’d be f-----. He makes what I think is the most compelling case for Trump you’ll hear,” Rogan wrote in his endorsement post. “For the record, yes, that’s an endorsement of Trump. Enjoy the podcast.”

As Rogan continues to navigate his complex relationship with political figures and issues, his platform remains influential among young voters shaping their perspectives ahead of the upcoming election.