America First Legal, an organization with ties to former President Donald Trump, is taking on sanctuary cities over their compliance with federal immigration laws.
At a Glance
- America First Legal is challenging sanctuary cities’ handling of federal immigration laws
- The organization has sent letters to city mayors addressing legal implications of their stance
- President-elect Trump plans to target sanctuary cities for mass deportations in his second term
- Democratic leaders prepare to challenge Trump’s immigration policies in court
- Some Democratic leaders show willingness to work with Trump on deportation goals
America First Legal Takes Action
America First Legal, an organization with connections to former President Donald Trump, has launched a proactive campaign challenging sanctuary cities across the United States. The group is addressing the legal implications of these cities’ stance on federal immigration laws, demonstrating its commitment to federal law adherence and advocacy for stringent immigration control.
By directly communicating with city mayors, America First Legal aims to influence municipal policies towards greater compliance with federal immigration principles. This move comes as President-elect Trump plans to renew efforts to target sanctuary cities and states for mass deportations in his anticipated second term.
Sanctuary Cities’ Resistance
Sanctuary cities have historically refused to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, and many intend to maintain this stance. These jurisdictions typically limit their collaboration with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), often citing concerns about community trust and local resource allocation.
Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, is seeking to have local law enforcement collaborate with ICE, particularly for public safety threats. This approach is likely to face resistance from sanctuary jurisdictions that have long prioritized separation between local law enforcement and federal immigration duties.
“What mayor or governor doesn’t want public safety threats out of their communities?” Tom Homan said.
Aren’t you glad he’s coming back?
Legal Battles on the Horizon
Democratic leaders are preparing to challenge Trump’s immigration policies in court, citing states’ rights under the 10th Amendment.
Here we go again.
The legal battles over sanctuary policies remain largely unresolved, with the 10th Amendment providing a strong defense for sanctuary jurisdictions against federal intervention.
“We’re not looking for a fight from the Trump administration, but if he attacks our progress, we’ll fight back,” California Attorney General Rob Bonta said.
In his first term, Trump attempted to withhold federal funding from sanctuary cities and contested their policies in court. These efforts may be revived, with potential conditions placed on federal funding based on cooperation with immigration enforcement. Additionally, Trump may seek to revoke policies preventing ICE arrests at sensitive locations.
The political landscape on immigration among Democrats has shifted somewhat, however, with some embracing stricter border security measures. New York City Mayor Eric Adams has shown willingness to work with Trump on deportation goals, raising concerns among immigrant rights groups. This shift is further exemplified by Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker’s uncertain stance on sanctuary policies, suggesting potential changes in Democratic support for such measures.
Fingers crossed Trump can get what needs to be done, done.
