DHS Warns Democrat States Over ICE Compliance

The Department of Homeland Security has reportedly issued warnings to three Democratic governors about the potential consequences—like legal action and cuts to federal funding—if they disregard requests from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

On September 10, Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons sent a letter to the Attorneys General of New York, California, and Illinois, asking whether their states would cooperate with the detainment of illegal immigrants. The federal agency noted that New York and Illinois had not complied, while California did not respond.

In a strongly worded reply, Lyons accused these sanctuary states of obstructing immigration enforcement and hinted that the Justice Department might take legal action against them, threatening to cut federal aid.

According to reports, Lyons addressed a follow-up letter specifically to Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, stating that “ICE will engage with the U.S. Department of Justice and other federal partners to pursue all appropriate measures against you.”

Similar warnings were also sent to New York Attorney General Letitia James and California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

Raoul responded to Lyons on September 12, arguing that the federal government lacks the authority to compel state or local law enforcement to act on ICE detainers. He expressed concerns that responding to such requests might expose Illinois law enforcement to liability due to wrongful detentions caused by ICE.

Raoul highlighted how the number of false detentions initiated by ICE continues to rise.

ICE is conducting extensive operations in major U.S. cities, including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., aligning with President Trump’s directives on illegal immigration.

DHS Deputy Director Tricia McLaughlin criticized the rebellious stance of the states, warning that letting violent offenders back into communities endangers residents. She remarked, “These dangerous sanctuary policies… have led to criminal illegal aliens being released into American communities, threatening American lives and happiness.”

McLaughlin emphasized that ICE detainers are asking for straightforward compliance to ensure these individuals are taken into custody before being released into communities.

“Politicians in these sanctuary states should do the right thing and stand with law-abiding Americans rather than supporting criminal and illegal aliens,” she stated.

The three attorneys general had not provided immediate comments in response to the developed situation.