North Carolina GOP Sends Immigration Enforcement Bills to Democratic Governor

North Carolina Republicans have passed two immigration enforcement bills requiring state agencies to cooperate with federal immigration authorities and allowing lawsuits against sanctuary cities. The legislation mandates state law enforcement to assist ICE by verifying the citizenship of detainees and notifying ICE of unlawful residents, while also barring undocumented immigrants from receiving state benefits. Governor Josh Stein, a Democrat, has not yet decided whether to veto the bills, which have faced strong opposition from Democrats who argue the measures intimidate immigrant communities and damage local relationships. Republicans, led by Senate Leader Phil Berger, argue the bills are necessary to support President Trump's crackdown on immigration and enhance public safety. If vetoed, Republicans face challenges in overriding Stein's decision due to their narrow majority and would need at least one Democrat's support. The measures have sparked protests and significant debate over immigration policy and enforcement at the state level amid a national backdrop of federal deportation raids.