NW Kentucky News

The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform convened a full committee hearing titled "A Hearing with Sanctuary City Mayors." The session focused on the impact of sanctuary city policies that allegedly obstruct federal immigration enforcement. The mayors of Chicago, Denver, New York City, and Boston were present to discuss their cities' policies regarding cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

During the hearing, committee members criticized these cities for not cooperating with federal authorities in transferring criminal illegal aliens from local custody to ICE. They argued that such policies jeopardize public safety and place federal agents at risk.

Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) highlighted what he termed as failures of the Biden-Harris Administration in handling immigration issues. He stated, "The border crisis was not the result of climate change, a lack of resources, or a failure to grant amnesty. It was the result of the last administration’s deliberate choice."

Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) provided specific cases illustrating how sanctuary city policies could endanger law enforcement officers by forcing them to make arrests outside secure environments like jails.

Mayor Johnston of Denver acknowledged releasing individuals despite detainer requests from ICE but defended his city's stance on existing laws.

Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) criticized Denver's non-cooperation with federal immigration efforts under Mayor Johnston's leadership and urged changes in state laws related to detainers.

Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) accused sanctuary city mayors of failing their responsibility to protect citizens by allowing illegal immigrants with criminal records to remain within their jurisdictions.

In response to concerns about financial implications for residents in sanctuary cities like Chicago, Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) questioned whether taxpayer funds should support services for illegal aliens over local needs.

Mayor Johnson responded that his duty is to serve all residents of Chicago but did not provide specific numbers regarding illegal aliens residing there.

Finally, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) pointed out potential legal violations by these cities concerning ICE removal orders and called for accountability among municipal leaders.