Gov. Reynolds warns Winneshiek County Sheriff on ICE compliance, threatens funding loss

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has issued a warning to Winneshiek County officials, including Sheriff Dan Marx, emphasizing their obligation to comply with federal immigration enforcement laws or risk losing state funding. This follows Sheriff Marx's public statement, where he declared that his office would only cooperate with federal agents if their requests were constitutional, and he would actively work to block any detainers that he deemed unconstitutional. Reynolds referenced Iowa Code 27A, which mandates sheriffs to assist federal immigration officers, underscoring that failure to comply could result in ineligibility for state funds. In his defense, Marx articulated that detainers are often issued when federal agents lack sufficient information or a valid warrant, suggesting that complying with such requests could violate individuals' rights. The tension reflects broader national debates over immigration enforcement and local law enforcement's role. Both sides continue to articulate their positions amidst potential legal and political ramifications.