Could it be that Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has suddenly discovered the virtues of pragmatism? In a surprising twist, she has not only dismantled the prominent Black Lives Matter mural that adorned a city street but is now also taking steps to repeal the city’s ‘sanctuary city’ policy.
This move marks a significant pivot in her stance, as she appears to be seeking collaboration with the Trump administration on issues surrounding illegal immigration.
Is this a sign of a political epiphany?
The Washington Free Beacon elaborates:
MAGA Muriel? DC Mayor Bowser Flip-Flops on Immigration, Moves To Repeal Sanctuary City Law: Report
In the context of President Donald Trump’s intensified efforts against illegal immigration, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D.) is making a startling reversal from her previous views on enforcement, proposing the repeal of a law that restricts local police from assisting ICE.
Bowser is subtly aiming to overturn the sanctuary city law, which prevents D.C. officials from inquiring about a person’s immigration status, transferring detainees to ICE, or allowing ICE interviews of suspects in local custody without a court order, as reported by Axios.
“The mayor is seeking this repeal discreetly, hidden within her newly released 2026 budget proposal,” Axios notes, adding that “the D.C. Council retains the authority over budgetary decisions, and some progressive members may oppose Bowser’s initiative.”
This newfound rigidity on immigration represents a stark departure from her previous positions since taking office in 2015. During Trump’s first term, Bowser proudly proclaimed D.C. as a “proud sanctuary city” and expressed her commitment to safeguarding immigrant families against what she termed Trump’s “disturbing” immigration policies.
This development is nothing short of astonishing. What prompted this shift?
Interesting development: D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser seeks to repeal the D.C. sanctuary city law & allow local police to cooperate with ICE. Even progressive leaders are starting to recognize the need for effective immigration enforcement and the rule of law. https://t.co/Nt7jIdlvYK
— RestoreTrustPAC (@RestoreTrustPAC) May 28, 2025
While the reasoning behind Bowser’s change of heart remains unclear, many are welcoming this unexpected shift.