Tom Homan, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) director under President Trump, issued a strong warning to officials and judges who support sanctuary cities. He stated that those who knowingly harbor illegal immigrants will face prosecution. Homan emphasized that the primary duty of public officials, including mayors and governors, is to protect their communities. He expressed confusion over why some officials prioritize illegal immigrants over the safety of citizens.
Homan made it clear that ICE is focused on public safety and national security threats. He believes that every elected official should support these efforts. He warned that while officials can protest or disagree with ICE’s actions, crossing the line into harboring or concealing illegal immigrants will lead to legal consequences.
These remarks came as President Trump prepared to sign two new executive orders on immigration. One of these orders will create a list of sanctuary cities that do not comply with federal immigration laws. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt explained that the orders would instruct the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to identify local jurisdictions that obstruct federal immigration enforcement.
Homan’s statements underline the ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local governments that adopt sanctuary policies. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these new executive orders will impact communities across the country.