DHS Secretary Considers Customs Limitations in Sanctuary Cities

During an appearance on “Special Report” on Monday, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin discussed the potential to restrict customs operations at airports located in sanctuary cities.

In his initial interview since taking office, Mullin indicated that DHS would evaluate customs enforcement protocols at major international airports that fall under these jurisdictions, questioning their effectiveness. “If they are sanctuary cities, should they really handle customs in their cities?” he posed.

“If they’re a sanctuary city accepting international flights, and then once people leave the airport they won’t enforce their immigration policies, perhaps we need to reconsider that,” he added.

Mullin specifically mentioned Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) as key customs points for this evaluation, noting that JFK sees about 3 million travelers each month as reported by the Port Authority.

“We’ll have to make some tough decisions,” Mullin stated. “I’m not looking to deviate from the policies Congress has put in place, but we do need to collaborate.”

He also pointed out that additional sanctuary cities may come under scrutiny, asserting that their legal status is questionable. “I believe sanctuary cities are not legitimate,” Mullin told Fox News anchor Bret Baier. “I don’t think it’s feasible for them to operate that way. We need to take a closer look.”

Mullin took over DHS after Kristi Noem was dismissed by President Trump on March 5 due to friction surrounding Trump’s mass deportation policy. Reports suggest that Trump was unhappy after Noem acknowledged a controversial advertising deal during a Senate hearing, something the White House claimed he was unaware of.

Sharing insights on how he plans to manage the department, Mullin emphasized the importance of equipping staff with the necessary tools and talents to fulfill their roles effectively. “How can we ensure they have what they need to carry out the mission assigned by Congress and the president?” he explained.

He expressed a goal for DHS to avoid consistent media attention within the next six months, mentioning that he is currently receiving more inquiries from the press than from the White House.

Reflecting on the current political environment, Mullin noted the complexity and intensity surrounding the Department of Homeland Security, suggesting that its primary function—keeping communities safe—should transcend political conflict. “What can we do to prioritize what’s best for America?” he questioned amidst an ongoing partial government shutdown attributed to disagreements over DHS funding.