New Jersey Governor Challenges ICE Enforcement

Democratic New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has openly challenged Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by revealing that an illegal immigrant is living on his property. At a Saturday event hosted by “Blue Wave New Jersey,” Murphy declared his willingness to defy federal authorities, saying, “Good luck to the feds coming in to try and get her.”

ICE agents have arrested over 7,400 illegal immigrants classified as public safety and national security threats since President Donald Trump took office. These arrests have prioritized individuals convicted of violent crimes such as child sex offenses, rape, robbery, and murder.

New Jersey became a sanctuary state in March 2019 under Murphy’s leadership, implementing policies restricting state and local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE. The governor also signed legislation allowing illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses, citing improved road safety as a justification. Additionally, his administration launched the “Immigration Trust Directive” to further limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Border czar Tom Homan warned in November that elected officials obstructing ICE operations, including Democratic Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, could face legal consequences. Meanwhile, ICE continues its enforcement efforts nationwide, recently arresting a Haitian gang member with 17 prior convictions in Boston, as well as other violent offenders from Brazil, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic.

President Trump’s administration has taken a firm stance on immigration, reversing policies that restricted ICE operations. On his first day in office, Trump signed 11 executive orders addressing the immigration crisis, including reinstating the Remain in Mexico policy and revoking birthright citizenship for children of illegal immigrants. Additionally, he imposed tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China to curb the influx of illegal immigration and illicit drugs. Mexico has since committed to deploying 10,000 National Guard soldiers to its southern border to assist in mitigating the crisis.

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