Plan for ICE detention center in Merrimack has been scrapped, governor says

Source: WMUR-TV Manchester, NH

Updated: 2:32 PM EST Feb 24, 2026


MERRIMACK, N.H. - After two months of speculation, protests and public debate, the Department of Homeland Security is moving on from plans for an immigrant detention facility in Merrimack, WMUR was first to report on Tuesday.

Gov. Kelly Ayotte announced the news Tuesday morning, saying she engaged directly with the Trump administration regarding the facility during a recent visit to Washington, D.C., for a gathering of the nation's governors.

"During my trip to Washington last week, I had productive discussions with Secretary Kristi Noem, and I'm pleased to announce that the Department of Homeland Security will not move forward with the proposed ICE facility in Merrimack," Ayotte said. "I thank Secretary Noem for hearing the concerns of the Town of Merrimack and for the continued cooperation between DHS and New Hampshire law enforcement to secure our northern border, keep dangerous criminals off our streets, and ensure our communities are safe."

The governor faced criticism from Democrats for not being more confrontational with the Trump administration, but on Tuesday morning, the secretary of Homeland Security gave a nod to Ayotte’s behind-the-scenes efforts, lauding her collaborative approach.

Read more: https://www.wmur.com/article/ice-facility-new-hampshire-plan-dead/70477572