A new directive from the U.S. Justice Department under President Trump threatens to prosecute state and local officials in California who defy federal immigration enforcement policies. This sparks immediate backlash from California politicians, lawyers, and immigration advocates who vow to continue protecting their communities.
State Sen. Jesse Arreguín, flanked by local elected officials, advocates, and community leaders, strikes a defiant tone during a press conference on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, in Oakland’s Fruitvale neighborhood, focused on fending off the Trump Administration’s anti-immigrant policies.
“Wrongful threats of prosecution are not going to stop the County from standing behind policies that represent the county’s values,” Santa Clara County Counsel Tony LoPresti said in a statement Wednesday. “We believe in the dignity of all members of our community, and we strive to create a welcoming and safe environment for everyone to visit county healthcare facilities, report crimes to local law enforcement, and use other county services without being fearful.
State and local sanctuary laws provide for exceptions, especially involving violent criminals. State prisons, including San Quentin in Marin County where serious felons are housed, are allowed to release inmates to federal officers. Local law enforcement may partner with federal agencies in targeting terrorist groups, human traffickers and criminal enterprises operated by people in the country illegally.
The Justice Department’s three-page memo argues that “federal law prohibits state and local actors from resisting, obstructing, and otherwise failing to comply with lawful immigration-related commands.”
TRUMP ADMINISTRATION IMMIGRATION CALIFORNIA SANCTUARY LAWS PROSECUTION
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Trump Administration Threatens Global Health CooperationThe article warns that the Trump administration's policies could significantly weaken the U.S. role in global health and negatively impact international health cooperation.
Read more »
Trump Administration Threatens Federal Employees Who Fail Report Efforts to Disguise DEIThe Trump administration has threatened federal employees who fail to report efforts to conceal DEI programs. Newsweek's live blog is closed.
Read more »
California Prepares for Legal Battle with Trump AdministrationCalifornia Governor Gavin Newsom and state legislators are planning to spend millions of dollars to challenge potential policies of the incoming Trump administration.
Read more »
California to Use Taxpayer Funds to Fight Trump Administration and Defend Illegal MigrantsCalifornia Governor Gavin Newsom has reached an agreement with fellow Democrats in the state legislature to allocate $50 million in taxpayer funds to combat the Trump administration and protect illegal immigrants from deportation. This decision comes as the Los Angeles fires death toll rises to 24. Newsom has stated that California is prepared to challenge the incoming administration in court and provide resources for residents.
Read more »
California Retreats on Diesel Truck and Locomotive Emission Rules Amidst Trump Administration UncertaintyCalifornia has withdrawn its groundbreaking regulations phasing out diesel trucks and requiring cleaner locomotives, caving to pressure from the incoming Trump administration. The state cited uncertainty surrounding the new administration's stance on environmental regulations as the reason for the decision.
Read more »
California Suspends Diesel Truck Phase-Out Due to Trump Administration UncertaintyCalifornia has withdrawn its requests for Environmental Protection Agency approval for regulations phasing out diesel trucks and mandating cleaner locomotives. This decision comes in anticipation of the incoming Trump administration's likely opposition to these regulations. California officials considered the rules crucial for improving the state's air quality and combating climate change.
Read more »