The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified its immigration enforcement efforts, directing federal prosecutors to investigate and potentially charge state and local officials who obstruct federal immigration policies. In a memo obtained by Reuters, Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove mandated that prosecutors must investigate and consider charges against local authorities who fail to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, signaling a dramatic escalation in Trump’s immigration crackdown.
This directive puts sanctuary cities such as New York and Chicago in the spotlight. These cities, known for limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities, could face legal action under federal laws that penalize obstructing or defrauding the U.S. government. The Justice Department has also reassigned nearly 20 career officials to a new unit focused on curbing sanctuary city resistance.
An estimated 44% of undocumented immigrants lived in states with sanctuary laws in 2022, with additional populations residing in sanctuary cities outside such states. The memo underscores the administration’s goal to enforce federal immigration laws, even if it means targeting local officials.
The crackdown has divided lawmakers. On Wednesday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the "Laken Riley Act," which mandates the detention of undocumented immigrants accused of theft. The bill, named after a Georgia woman killed by an undocumented immigrant, passed with support from 46 Democrats alongside 217 Republicans. The Senate had already approved the legislation, which now awaits Trump's signature.
While some Democratic lawmakers, like California Attorney General Rob Bonta, have vowed to resist, others, including moderate Democrat Representative Tom Suozzi, voiced support for stricter enforcement, citing public demand for action on immigration.
Trump’s administration has implemented broad measures to tighten immigration controls. These include rescinding Biden-era guidance limiting arrests near sensitive locations, expanding deportation powers for immigration officers, and deploying 1,000 additional troops to the U.S.-Mexico border. The administration has also restricted asylum claims and is preparing to terminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in federal agencies.
These actions align with Trump’s campaign promises to combat illegal immigration and push cultural policies that resonate with his base. Public opinion remains sharply divided. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 39% of Americans supported detention of undocumented immigrants awaiting deportation, while 42% opposed it. Additionally, 58% of respondents favored reducing asylum claims at the border.
In response to the anticipated increase in deportations, Mexican authorities have begun constructing large shelters in Ciudad Juarez to accommodate deported nationals. The move highlights the international ripple effects of Trump’s policies.
The Trump administration’s latest crackdown reflects its commitment to enforcing federal immigration laws and challenging sanctuary cities. However, it has also deepened political and public divides over immigration policy, setting the stage for further confrontation in the months ahead.