Democratic Mayors Push Back Against Republican Attacks on Sanctuary Cities
In a heated hearing before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Democratic mayors from four major cities—Michelle Wu of Boston, Brandon Johnson of Chicago, Mike Johnston of Denver, and Eric Adams of New York—accused Congress and the Trump administration of exaggerating crimes committed by immigrants to score political points. The mayors argued that sanctuary city policies, which limit local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration officers, are being unfairly demonized. Republicans have long criticized these policies, claiming they shield criminals and hinder federal deportation efforts. However, the mayors emphasized that their policies are legal and necessary to maintain trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities.
Republican Lawmakers Grill Mayors Over Sanctuary Policies
During the hearing, Republican lawmakers, led by Rep. James Comer, charged that sanctuary policies endanger public safety and protect criminals. Comer asserted that these policies "only create sanctuary for criminals" and accused the mayors of undermining President Trump’s deportation initiatives. Rep. Jim Jordan further scrutinized Johnston over a Denver case where ICE agents had to apprehend a man after his release from local custody, suggesting that the city’s policies made the community less safe. Republicans also played a video highlighting crimes committed by immigrants in sanctuary cities and threatening to cut federal funding to cities that do not comply with immigration enforcement.
Mayors Defend Sanctuary Policies, Cite Crime Reductions and Legal Compliance
The mayors defended their policies, arguing that they do not violate immigration law and are essential for building trust in their communities. Brandon Johnson of Chicago noted that crime rates in his city have decreased, dismissing claims that sanctuary policies lead to higher crime as "grandstanding" and "fear mongering." Eric Adams of New York emphasized that his city complies with all laws and has collaborated with ICE, though he faced criticism from some Democrats over his cooperation. Mike Johnston of Denver highlighted that crime rates dropped when his city accommodated an influx of immigrants, many of whom were bussed from border states by Republican officials. Johnston called for comprehensive immigration reform to address the root causes of migration.
Republican Video Targets Mayors, Escalates Rhetoric
A video released by the Republican majority depicted the Constitution burning, followed by images of the mayors and arrests of criminals by ICE agents. The video ended with Comer threatening to withhold federal funds from cities that refuse to cooperate with immigration enforcement. This dramatic presentation underscored the escalating rhetoric around sanctuary cities, with Republicans framing the issue as a matter of public safety and constitutional integrity.
Tensions Rise Over ICE Collaboration and Federal Funding
The hearing revealed sharp divisions over the role of local law enforcement in immigration matters. Mayors argued that involving police in immigration enforcement erodes community trust, making residents less likely to report crimes or cooperate with authorities. Wu of Boston, whose parents immigrated from Taiwan, expressed concern that the federal government’s approach is instilling fear in immigrant communities. She affirmed that immigrants "belong here" and are integral to their cities’ fabric. Republicans, however, maintained that sanctuary policies force ICE agents to conduct dangerous operations in neighborhoods, leading to "collateral arrests" and destabilizing communities.
Federal Lawsuits and Political Battles Loom
The Trump administration has sued cities like Chicago and New York over their sanctuary policies, escalating the legal and political battle. Mayors and advocates argue that ICE often targets individuals beyond those accused of serious crimes, disrupting families and communities. As the debate continues, the mayors urged Congress to focus on meaningful immigration reform rather than scapegoating cities for political gain. The hearing highlighted the deep partisan divide on immigration and sanctuary policies, with no resolution in sight as cities and federal authorities remain locked in conflict.
