Madison Sheahan, who has served as the deputy director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, has left the agency to begin a campaign for Congress in Ohio. Her departure was confirmed Wednesday after she announced her resignation and political ambitions in a social media statement dated January 15.
Sheahan’s exit takes effect immediately, ending her tenure as the agency’s second-highest-ranking official. She was appointed to the post by President Joe Biden, making her one of the most senior law enforcement officials within the Department of Homeland Security. A successor has not yet been named.
Her congressional campaign will target Ohio’s 9th District, a politically competitive region currently represented by Democrat Marcy Kaptur. The district is expected to attract heavy national attention ahead of the 2026 midterm elections as both parties look to bolster their influence in the Midwest.
Before arriving in Washington, Sheahan led South Dakota’s Office of Homeland Security and previously spent time in local law enforcement as a sheriff’s deputy in Pennington County. Those experiences are expected to shape her campaign messaging, which she signaled would prioritize tighter border controls, increased backing for police departments, and new strategies to combat drug trafficking across the Midwest.
Political strategists note that the district presents an opportunity for Republicans seeking gains in traditionally working-class communities, though Democrats have maintained a foothold in the seat for decades. No official endorsements or initial fundraising totals for Sheahan have yet been released.
Her departure marks the latest example of federal officials entering electoral politics as congressional races begin to take shape for the 2026 cycle.
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