Addressing the Threat of Sanctuary Cities to National Security

Over the past four years, the United States has faced a surge in illegal immigration and open border policies, leading to severe consequences for public safety. Tragically, more than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives due to fentanyl poisoning, while countless others have suffered at the hands of violent criminal acts committed by undocumented individuals.

In response to these growing concerns, I commend President Donald Trump for signing the Laken Riley Act into law. This legislation mandates the incarceration of illegal immigrants who commit further crimes against citizens and businesses. It aims to prevent heinous acts by illegal aliens that threaten public safety.

If the Laken Riley Act had been in place in September 2023, it is likely that the perpetrator of Laken Riley’s murder would have been detained and handed over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). However, this outcome hinges on sanctuary cities, such as New York, choosing to comply with federal law and cooperating in removing dangerous criminal elements.

Unfortunately, rather than prioritizing the protection of victims and adhering to their fundamental responsibilities, many radical politicians are openly defying the law. They publicly declare their commitment to resisting the enforcement of immigration laws, often while expressing solidarity with criminal aliens. This alarming trend jeopardizes the safety of our communities.

The Scope of the Problem

Sanctuary cities are not limited to far-left bastions like Boston, Chicago, and California. Across the nation, law enforcement officers and police chiefs have made the troubling decision to refrain from collaborating with ICE. This refusal to act represents a dereliction of duty and contributes significantly to the national security threats facing our nation.

Statistics reveal that more Americans have been killed by illegal immigrant criminals and violent alien gangs than by global terrorist organizations. If local and state politicians continue to ignore this dire reality, it is prudent to treat them as obstacles to national safety.

Consequences of Sanctuary Policies

Border czar Tom Homan has frequently articulated that the radical ideology embodied by sanctuary cities not only endangers communities but also complicates the operational duties of ICE and other law enforcement agencies. It is irresponsible for law enforcement to compromise the safety of colleagues who selflessly risk their lives to remove threats.

Taking Action

Reform is essential, not just to enhance public safety but also because the American populace demands that all levels of government actively work to secure their families and neighborhoods. My firsthand experience as a former councilwoman and mayor of a prominent city elucidates the advantages of collaboration between local law enforcement and ICE in addressing threats.

In leading the City of Irving’s Criminal Alien Program (CAP 24/7), we successfully worked alongside ICE, resulting in the apprehension and deportation of thousands of criminal illegal immigrants. As a result, Irving transformed into the fifth-safest city in the United States, attracting families and businesses and fostering a cycle of growth.

Communities in Need

Contrary to assertions by leftist politicians, the communities that gained the most from removing criminal elements were often immigrant and low-income populations. Many calls for police assistance originated from these neighborhoods, as residents sought relief from persistent violence and crime.

A Call for Legislative Action

With the current administration committed to enforcing immigration laws, Congress must act decisively to address national security threats posed by sanctuary policies. For this reason, I introduced the No Congressional Funds for Sanctuary Cities Act, H.R. 205, which aims to prohibit funding for projects in sanctuary cities that impede immigration enforcement.

This legislation empowers the federal government to enforce compliance by denying funds to jurisdictions that do not adhere to immigration laws. Sanctuary cities must understand that they cannot unilaterally choose to exclude themselves from upholding public safety laws without facing consequences.

Responding to Public Demand

In the wake of recent elections, the American people have voiced their demand for swift action against criminal illegal aliens. They insist on strict adherence to our laws, secure borders, and the removal of criminals from communities.

This issue is of paramount importance to national security. Thus, Congress must support additional funding for ICE and Border Patrol operations, as well as advance measures like H.R. 205 to ensure protection for all Americans and safeguard their communities.

Taking Responsibility

The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated. As citizens, we must hold our representatives accountable for fostering safety and upholding the rule of law, ensuring that all Americans can thrive in secure environments.