New York City, the nation’s largest sanctuary city, is facing increased pressure from the Trump administration, as U.S. Attorney General orders a pause in federal funding for cities that interfere with immigration enforcement operations.
At the same time, the Adams administration has confirmed that it is cooperating with ICE agents during targeted immigration operations across the city.
As President Donald Trump continues his aggressive crackdown on undocumented immigrants, his administration has threatened legal action against those who obstruct enforcement efforts.
City agencies, including public schools and the shelter system, have received new guidance on how to respond when ICE agents conduct arrests.
A memo issued to city workers instructs them to comply with ICE agents if they feel their safety is at risk, stating that they should:
- Provide any requested information
- Allow federal authorities to enter and search city sites
This marks a major shift from NYC’s standing sanctuary policy, which previously barred city workers from cooperating with immigration authorities unless presented with a judicial warrant.
The shift appears to be a response to Trump’s escalating threats against local officials who hinder federal immigration enforcement.
“Governor Phil Murphy and the rest of the people that want to game this, it’s not a joke. This is not a joke. This is serious business, and they need to stop or we’re going to prosecute them through the Department of Justice,” said Border Czar Tom Homan.
Since Trump returned to office, nearly 12,000 undocumented immigrants have been arrested nationwide, including 100 in last week’s raids in New York City, according to Homan.
Despite the city’s past commitment to protecting immigrants, advocacy groups argue that local leaders are not doing enough to shield undocumented communities from federal enforcement efforts.
With Trump’s mass deportation plans moving forward, NYC’s sanctuary status is under serious threat, raising concerns over civil rights, public safety, and federal overreach.
