The Trump administration is ramping up its crackdown on sanctuary cities, with a direct promise from Border Czar Tom Homan to triple enforcement efforts and bring federal immigration law directly to areas defying cooperation. Following the Democrat primary win of socialist Zohran Mamdani for New York City mayor, Homan confirmed aggressive plans to confront cities that refuse to comply with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
During a press Q&A, Homan stated that President Trump’s directive was clear: sanctuary cities would face a rescaled federal push. “We’re gonna double down — triple down,” Homan said. He emphasized that the strategy targets areas with proven failures in detaining dangerous individuals, not political affiliation. “We know that’s where the problem is,” he added, pointing to recurring releases of public safety threats.
Homan drew a stark contrast between sanctuary cities and states like Florida, where sheriffs routinely assist federal agents. In sanctuary cities, Homan explained, the lack of cooperation leads to criminals being released back into the community. “If they don’t let us arrest the bad guy in the county jail, they’re going to arrest them in the community,” he said.
Plans include expanding workplace enforcement operations and community arrests. “We’re going to increase community operation. We’re going to increase worksite enforcement operation. We’re going to get the bad guys,” Homan declared. He issued a strong warning to non-compliant leaders: “So they don’t want to help, get out of the way. We’re coming to do it.”
Homan has already demonstrated action. In March, he traveled to Boston, Massachusetts, where ICE arrested 380 illegal immigrants, many with serious criminal histories. The Department of Homeland Security continues to publicize arrests of illegal aliens charged with crimes including homicide, child rape, kidnapping, and violent assaults.
The Trump administration’s stance reinforces a law-and-order agenda and a sharp focus on protecting American communities from criminal illegal aliens. As the 2024 campaign season advances, immigration enforcement remains a top priority, especially in cities openly defying federal immigration law.