DHS Threatens Sanctuary Jurisdictions With Funding Cuts

The Trump administration released a list of over 500 jurisdictions, including various cities, counties, and states, it alleges are sanctuary areas obstructing federal immigration enforcement and endangering public safety. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has warned these jurisdictions of potential suspension or termination of federal funding, following an executive order by President Trump. Criteria for inclusion range from self-identification as a sanctuary to policies limiting cooperation with immigration authorities. Several local and state leaders dispute their inclusion, claim compliance with federal law, and argue the designation is inaccurate or politically driven. Some jurisdictions have already responded by threatening or launching lawsuits, citing prior court decisions that blocked similar federal actions. DHS states the list will be updated regularly, intensifying debate over federal versus local authority in immigration enforcement.