Leaders of several sanctuary cities that previously opposed Donald Trump’s immigration policies are now adjusting their approach as he prepares to return to office and implement his mass deportation agenda. Some local officials are toning down their association with the “sanctuary city” label and are committing to collaborating with federal immigration authorities. However, others are standing firm on their cities being safe havens for undocumented immigrants and are refusing to cooperate with the Trump administration’s deportation plans.
The different responses from officials in major Democratic cities in the U.S. highlight the evolving dynamics of immigration politics in the country. While many city leaders vocally opposed Trump’s immigration stance during his previous term, some are now open to working more closely with his administration on certain issues or moderating their rhetoric.
In Philadelphia, both Mayor Cherelle Parker and District Attorney Larry Krasner, who are Democrats, appear to be stepping back from the sanctuary city rhetoric and confrontational stance taken by the city in the past. When asked if Philadelphia is still considered a sanctuary city, Krasner avoided a direct response, emphasizing the city’s values of inclusivity and support for law-abiding immigrant residents.
Krasner stated that Philadelphia prioritizes following the law and upholding the Constitution, indicating a willingness to cooperate with federal authorities as required. However, he also emphasized that any unlawful actions by ICE agents would not be tolerated.
The term “sanctuary city” is not a formal designation but refers to jurisdictions that have enacted policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement to protect undocumented residents. Despite being pressed on the issue, both Parker and her spokesperson did not directly confirm whether Philadelphia remains a sanctuary city or if they would assist in deportations if pursued by ICE and the Trump administration.
The spokesperson reiterated the administration’s focus on local priorities and its commitment to maintaining the city’s 2016 executive order on ICE detainers. This order was signed by the previous mayor, Jim Kenney, and sets out guidelines for the city’s interactions with federal immigration authorities.
The city has decided to no longer honor some ICE detainers, which are requests for local officials to hold an immigrant due for release for an additional 48 hours to allow ICE to take them into custody. While this policy remains in effect, the cautious stance taken by Parker and Krasner represents a significant departure from the previous position held by city officials during Trump’s first term. For example, in 2018, Kenney was captured on camera joyfully singing and dancing after a judge ruled in favor of the city’s sanctuary policies.
In New York City, there has been a shift in immigration policy over the past few years. Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat, who recently met with Trump in Florida, has expressed interest in collaborating with the new administration, particularly on immigration matters. The city has been grappling with a surge in migrant arrivals, which Adams referred to as a “crisis” that could “destroy” the city by 2023. He has been critical of the Biden administration for not providing sufficient assistance to New York and other cities, even meeting with incoming border czar Tom Homan in December.
While Adams maintains New York City as a sanctuary city, he has indicated a willingness to amend laws to allow city officials to cooperate with federal immigration and law enforcement authorities in deporting undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds. He recently suggested that migrants accused of crimes should not automatically receive due process, showcasing a different approach from his predecessor, Bill de Blasio, who implemented laws during Trump’s first term to impede collaboration between city law enforcement and ICE agents seeking to deport undocumented immigrants.
Adams’ spokesperson, Liz Garcia, emphasized the mayor’s commitment to supporting immigrant communities and ensuring that city staff are informed about upholding sanctuary city laws. Democratic leaders in other sanctuary cities have also maintained a firm stance against the incoming administration’s immigration policies. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has vowed not to cooperate with ICE deportations and recently rejected a proposal to ease laws preventing city officials from working with federal immigration authorities targeting individuals involved in certain crimes.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, a staunch advocate for sanctuary laws, stands firm in his resolve to uphold the city’s welcoming policies despite potential challenges from the federal government. In a recent interview with Denverite, Mayor Johnston emphasized the importance of protecting Denver’s core values, stating, “We won’t change that because those are one of our core values. We’re not going to sell out those values to anyone. We’re not going to be bullied into changing them.”
Drawing parallels to historic moments of resistance, Mayor Johnston alluded to a possible united front between Denver police and citizens to resist federal immigration enforcement efforts. “It’s like the Tiananmen Square moment with the rose and the gun, right?” he remarked, highlighting the symbolic struggle against oppressive forces.
Addressing concerns about Denver’s sanctuary city status and potential collaboration with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Mayor Johnston’s spokesperson, Jordan Fuja, reiterated the city’s commitment to being a welcoming environment. Fuja emphasized that Denver has laws in place at both the city and state levels to ensure that local law enforcement does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities. “Denver defines itself as a welcoming city, and we do have laws on the books, both city and state, that ensure that local police do not do the work of federal immigration enforcement. That’s the federal government’s job, not ours,” stated Fuja.
In response to potential challenges from the federal government, Fuja’s statement conveyed a resolute stance on Denver’s position, asserting, “If Donald Trump tries to break the law and abuse his power, he will get no help from us.” The statement further indicated that Mayor Johnston is exploring various avenues to enhance protections for all residents, reflecting the city’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its diverse population.
Denver takes pride in its identity as a welcoming city, with a steadfast determination to shield its residents from unjust treatment. Mayor Johnston’s unwavering dedication to upholding sanctuary laws underscores Denver’s values of inclusivity and solidarity, signaling a resolute stand against any potential encroachments on the city’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive community for all who call it home.
