Blue county ‘super sanctuary’ law to remain in place
San Diego County’s “super sanctuary” policy will remain in place despite a failed vote by Republican county officials to scrap it. This decision has sparked controversy and strong opinions from both sides of the aisle.
Congressman Darrell Issa, a Republican from California, criticized the policy, blaming the Biden Administration for forcing San Diego County into the border crisis. Issa believes that sanctuary policies contradict laws, hinder law enforcement, and put innocent Americans at risk. He confidently stated that sanctuary policies will eventually be phased out.
The policy in question limits the cooperation between local authorities in San Diego and federal law enforcement when it comes to detaining and turning over illegal immigrants. Critics argue that this policy could potentially protect individuals suspected of serious crimes, such as rapists, child abusers, burglars, and violent offenders.
Republican Supervisor Jim Desmond expressed disappointment over the failed vote, emphasizing the importance of removing criminals from communities to ensure the safety of law-abiding residents. However, Democratic Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe defended the policy, claiming that it was designed to keep the county within its jurisdiction and maintain the role of the federal government.
The decision to uphold the sanctuary policy comes at a time when immigration and border policies are undergoing significant changes. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continues to conduct raids across the country, and border crossings have decreased. Former Trump border czar Tom Homan has been a vocal critic of sanctuary city policies, arguing that they make it harder for federal immigration authorities to carry out their duties.
The closure of the Jewish Family Service of San Diego’s migrant center due to a decrease in migrant arrivals further highlights the impact of changing immigration policies. Supervisor Desmond emphasized the importance of allowing ICE to detain criminals in jail rather than conducting arrests in communities, which he believes is safer and less invasive.
With one vacant seat on the board following the departure of former Chair Nora Vargas, the future of the sanctuary policy in San Diego County remains uncertain. The debate over sanctuary policies is likely to continue as both sides advocate for their respective positions on immigration and law enforcement.
