By REBECCA SANTANA
WASHINGTON (AP) — Congressional Republicans are targeting four cities known as “sanctuary cities” for their policies limiting cooperation with immigration enforcement. This hearing comes as President Donald Trump continues his campaign of mass deportations.
Mayors Michelle Wu of Boston, Brandon Johnson of Chicago, Mike Johnston of Denver, and Eric Adams of New York are set to appear before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform on Wednesday.
The term “sanctuary policies or sanctuary cities” generally refers to limited cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While ICE enforces U.S. immigration laws nationwide, some cities and states argue that cooperating with ICE could deter victims of crime and witnesses who are undocumented from coming forward.
The legality of sanctuary laws has been upheld by courts, but the Trump administration has actively targeted these policies as a barrier to mass deportations. Lawsuits have been filed against Chicago, Illinois, and New York state over various immigration laws.
Here’s a closer look at the immigration policies and migration trends in these cities:
Boston
Boston’s Trust Act limits police cooperation with ICE, with exceptions for issues like combating human trafficking. The city must also follow a 2017 ruling that prohibits authorities from holding individuals solely based on a federal request.
Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, criticized Boston’s police commissioner, leading to backlash from city officials. Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized Boston’s commitment to being a welcoming place for immigrants.
Chicago
Chicago has strong immigrant protections in place, barring cooperation between federal agents and city employees. The city has intensified its policies over the years, particularly after Trump took office.
Mayor Brandon Johnson has defended Chicago’s sanctuary policies, stating that the city welcomes all individuals and families.
Denver
Denver has become a hub for immigrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, with thousands arriving in recent years. Mayor Mike Johnston has faced challenges in providing resources for these individuals.
The city received attention when false claims about a Venezuelan gang circulated, leading to a federal response. Mayor Johnston has reiterated Denver’s commitment to being welcoming while prioritizing public safety.
New York
New York City has seen a significant influx of immigrants, leading to substantial costs for the city. Mayor Eric Adams supports policies that ensure access to social services regardless of immigration status.
Adams has expressed willingness to work with immigration enforcement to remove dangerous individuals from the streets. Critics argue that his stance is influenced by federal corruption charges.
Overall, these cities continue to grapple with complex immigration issues, and the mayors’ appearances before Congress highlight the ongoing debate surrounding sanctuary policies.
Associated Press writers Cedar Attanasio and Jennifer Peltz in New York, Jesse Bedayn in Denver, Sophia Tareen in Chicago, and Michael Casey in Boston contributed to this report.
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