‘Tough decisions’ in store for ‘sanctuary’ cities after Bondi turns off federal funding spigot
Attorney General Pam Bondi has taken a firm stance against so-called “sanctuary cities” by ordering a pause on federal funds and directing the Department of Justice to investigate jurisdictions that impede law enforcement. This move has sparked reactions from leaders of both parties in states likely to be affected, as they grapple with the potential loss of funding and the consequences of not cooperating with federal immigration authorities.
In Pennsylvania, where Philadelphia, Lancaster, and Pittsburgh have all taken varying stances on sanctuary city policies, the response has been mixed. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker declined to comment on Bondi’s action, while Lancaster and Pittsburgh have expressed opposition to working with ICE. House Minority Leader Jesse Topper emphasized the importance of upholding the law and supporting consequences for non-compliance, while State Sen. Jarrett Coleman acknowledged the challenges that cities like Philadelphia may face in managing the loss of funding.
State Sen. Doug Mastriano and Governor Josh Shapiro both highlighted the need to prioritize public safety and enforce immigration laws, with Mastriano criticizing sanctuary city policies for putting illegal immigrants ahead of citizens. While Shapiro did not directly address Bondi’s order, he expressed support for efforts to remove criminals who are in the country illegally.
In New York, leaders are preparing for potential action against sanctuary cities like Albany and New York City. Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt criticized Democrats for ignoring calls to end sanctuary policies, while State Sen. Steve Chan emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent appropriately.
Boston, Massachusetts, and California are also likely to be affected by Bondi’s withholding order, with leaders in those states grappling with the implications of losing federal funding. Senate Leader Karen Spilka and House Minority Leader Brad Jones of Massachusetts were contacted for their thoughts, while California State Senate Leader Brian W. Jones announced plans to introduce legislation to overhaul sanctuary state policies.
In Illinois, Governor JB Pritzker defended the state’s TRUST Act, which prevents law enforcement from holding illegal immigrant prisoners without a court warrant. Former Governor Bruce Rauner’s enactment of the TRUST Act has been at the center of a lawsuit filed by Bondi’s office, highlighting the ongoing legal battles surrounding sanctuary city policies.
Overall, Bondi’s order has sparked a range of reactions from leaders across the country, with discussions revolving around the balance between public safety, immigration enforcement, and the implications of withholding federal funds from sanctuary cities. The ongoing debate underscores the complexity of immigration policy and the challenges faced by states and cities in navigating these issues.
