Why Clark County is Housing ICE Detainees

What is really happening with ICE in Southern Indiana—and why aren’t more people talking about it?Sarah Blessing sits down with Rhiannon Ryan of Do Something Southern Indiana, a nonpartisan community organization working to educate, organize, and empower local residents around issues affecting Southern Indiana.Together, they take a deep dive into Clark County’s agreement to house ICE detainees in the Clark County Jail, the questions surrounding federal funding for that agreement, and why transparency matters. Reports have raised questions about whether the county is receiving the funding originally expected, making public records requests more important than ever to understand how the program is operating and what taxpayers should know.The conversation also examines the recent ICE operation in Clark County, where at least 28 people were detained over two days—Wednesday and Thursday, July 8-9, 2026—an event that many Southern Indiana residents still know very little about.  Sarah and Rhiannon discuss concerns about local law enforcement’s role, why the upcoming Clark County sheriff’s race could shape the future of the jail’s ICE partnership, and why local elections often have a much bigger impact on our communities than many people realize.Most importantly, this episode is about refusing to give in to hopelessness. Whether you agree or disagree on immigration policy, democracy works best when people stay informed, ask questions, and get involved. Rhiannon shares how organizations like Do Something Southern Indiana—and groups like Indivisible, with chapters across the country—give ordinary people a way to make a difference close to home.If you’ve ever wondered, “What can I actually do?” this conversation is a reminder that change begins locally—and that every community needs people willing to show up, learn the facts, and care about their neighbors.Don’t tune out. Get informed. Get involved. Be part of the solution. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.projectnextindiana.com