First Thing: Court files show how federal agents spied on anti-ICE protesters | Martin Belam

Newly disclosed court documents show that the Department of Homeland Security launched a sweeping surveillance operation targeting anti-ICE protesters, labor unions, and advocacy groups. Investigators used undercover agents who infiltrated community meetings and private Signal chats while gathering financial records under an inquiry into “domestic terrorist financing.” Activists responded by stating that these actions represent a clear attempt to intimidate and politically repress disagreement.