New York Democrat calls for end to sanctuary-city policies

In New York City, Queens Councilman Robert Holden has been vocal about his opposition to sanctuary-city policies, urging Mayor Eric Adams and state officials to prioritize enforcement of federal immigration laws. This advocacy comes amidst growing concerns regarding the implications of these local laws on public safety and crime rates. Holden, a member of the Democratic Party, expressed his sentiments in a letter where he highlighted the potential dangers posed by harboring illegal immigrants. He underscored that such policies may not only violate federal law but also jeopardize the safety of New Yorkers. In a summer legislative push, Holden co-sponsored a bill alongside Republican Joe Borelli aiming to repeal these sanctuary policies. However, the effort faced obstacles due to a lack of support from other Democrats, indicating a divide within the party on immigration policies. The letter alluded to the increasing challenges municipalities face from the surge of illegal immigration, with reports indicating over 150,000 undocumented individuals arriving in New York since spring 2022. This influx has been fueled by border states like Texas, which have started sending migrants to sanctuary cities as a form of protest against these policies. The political landscape appears to be shifting as some Democrats, including Mayor Adams, begin reconsidering the effectiveness of sanctuary measures in light of public safety concerns. In contrast, other Democrats like Denver Mayor Mike Johnston remain staunchly opposed to altering sanctuary laws, expressing a commitment to uphold values associated with these policies regardless of pressures that may arise. This growing discourse on immigration policy reflects broader national trends and tensions regarding the management of undocumented migrants and the responsibilities of sanctuary jurisdictions.