Cornyn Criticizes Democrats for Endangering Public Safety
Senator John Cornyn, a veteran Republican from Texas, has accused Democrats of jeopardizing American lives with their sanctuary policies and by not adequately funding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
In a recent interview, he suggested that Democrats are exhibiting a “defund the police” mentality. This statement follows a surge in public concern regarding safety threats, particularly after what seemed to be an assassination attempt on President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. There’s also an increasing fear surrounding violent crimes linked to illegal immigrants in various communities. Compounding these issues is the unprecedented funding deficit within the DHS, which hampers its ability to address these threats.
“We know there are dangerous individuals present,” Cornyn stated. “People with criminal backgrounds, who pose substantial risks to public safety. If there’s one fundamental priority for the public, it’s safety.”
Cornyn, who is a senior senator and chairman of the Border Security and Immigration Subcommittee, recently introduced the Sanctuary Cities Exclusion Act. This legislation aims to prevent local police departments from receiving federal funding if they do not cooperate with ICE regarding detainees.
He criticized Democrats for “holding DHS hostage” to curtail immigration enforcement. “It reflects a sort of a leftist mindset of undermining the police, especially related to illegal immigration,” he remarked.
He also referenced the tragic case of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungarai, an American citizen killed by two illegal immigrants in 2024, which he stated occurred under the Biden administration. “Texans remember the names of those like Jocelyn, victims of the uncontrolled immigration policies of the previous administration,” Cornyn added.
Currently, Cornyn is in a tight primary contest with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is contesting the Senate seat he has held since 2002. Paxton has the support of organizations like Turning Point USA, while Cornyn enjoys backing from the National Border Patrol Council. The outcome will be determined by Texas voters later this month.
Cornyn’s Sanctuary Cities Repeal Act has gained co-sponsorship from other Republican senators. If passed, it would restrict federal funding to sanctuary cities and states, impacting grants for various programs, and provide protections for local law enforcement involved with ICE. It would also grant state governments the ability to sue jurisdictions releasing criminal aliens.
Interestingly, around the same time Cornyn introduced this bill, the Houston City Council eliminated its sanctuary policy after facing potential legal threats from state officials.
Cornyn is optimistic about the potential for his bill, suggesting that even if Democrats resist, they might pursue it through reconciliation similar to the funding processes for ICE and DHS.
Regarding security, attendees at the recent dinner have voiced concerns about inconsistent pre-screening measures. Cornyn used this context to emphasize the significance of public safety, noting the upcoming midterm elections. He believes that the topic will remain pivotal for voters.
“It’s quite a stark difference—we prioritize public safety. Democrats, it seems, don’t,” he said. He remarked on the contradiction of Democrats expressing concern for Trump’s safety while refusing funding for the department tasked with protecting him.
The discussion continues, as inquiries have been made to former President Joe Biden’s press secretary and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer regarding these matters.
