Madison Sheahan Biography: Age, Husband, Career, ICE Role & Personal Life
Born around 1996–97 in Curtice, Ohio, Madison Sheahan grew up near Lake Erie on her family’s farm, fostering her passion for agriculture, wildlife, and leadership . A dedicated member of FFA, she served as Ohio FFA vice president, gaining early leadership experience l. At Ohio State, she rowed competitively, served as team captain, and contributed to Big Ten victories, while developing the “Lead like a Buckeye” leadership initiative .
| Full Name | Madison D. Sheahan |
| Age | Born c. 1996–1997 (≈ 28 years old in 2025) |
| Hometown | Curtice, Northwest Ohio |
| Education | BA in Public Affairs, Public Management, Leadership, Policy, Agribusiness<br>Minors: Community & Business Leadership (Ohio State University, Class of 2019) |
| Athletics | Varsity rowing at OSU—team captain, two Big Ten championships |
| FFA Involvement | Ohio FFA state officer, annual state-level leadership roles |
| Political Career | • Ohio GOP staffer (post‑graduation) <br>• Political Director, Gov. Kristi Noem (SD) Feb 2021–Jan 2024• Executive Director, South Dakota Republican Party Jan 2023–Jan 2024 |
| State Cabinet Role | Secretary, Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife & Fisheries Jan 2024–Mar 2025 Managed $280 M budget, ~800 staff; formed new Special Ops unit and coordinated law-enforcement efforts for major state events |
| Federal Office | Deputy Director, U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (appointed Mar 2025). Oversees >20,000 employees and >$9 B budget |
| Personal Life | Grew up on Lake Erie; avid hunter/fisher; family-run small businesses; known for direct, outspoken personality |
| Marital Status | No public records indicate she is married; no husband on public platforms |
🧑💼 Political Rise & State Leadership
After OSU, Sheahan joined the Ohio GOP before being recruited to South Dakota politics. From February 2021 to January 2024, she served as political director for Gov. Kristi Noem, then led the South Dakota Republican Party
Her rapid ascent continued in December 2023, when Gov.-elect Jeff Landry appointed her Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries at age 26—the youngest in state cabinet history . There, she managed a $280 million budget, instituted a Special Operations enforcement unit, and worked collaboratively with multiple agencies on major events like Mardi Gras and Super Bowl LIX .
🌐 Federal Appointment & Controversy
In March 2025, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem tapped Sheahan to serve as Deputy Director of ICE, overseeing more than 20,000 staff and a $9 billion annual budget .
Her appointment sparked debate due to her lack of direct law enforcement experience—raising concerns over her credentials for a role that legally requires at least five years in law enforcement and management . Criticism centers on her youth (27–28), and allegations she directed state enforcement actions, including homeless sweeps in New Orleans, while at LDWF .
🤝 Personal & Public Persona
Sheahan is known for her straightforward communication style and strong leadership character. Close friends describe her as bold and principled; her family recalls her unfiltered childhood wit . She embraces her outdoors upbringing, enjoying hunting and fishing with family. No credible sources indicate she is married or publicly in a relationship.
🔍 Summary & Significance
Madison Sheahan’s career trajectory—from Ohio rower to ICE deputy director by age 28—is remarkable. Her rapid rise reflects strong political alliances and leadership capability. However, her limited law enforcement background and involvement in controversial policy enforcement present potential challenges in her latest federal role. As she assumes her duties at ICE, all eyes will be on her adaptability, operational leadership, and policy positioning.
