Hochul declares she will call ICE on migrants who commit crimes

In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has generated significant discussion regarding her stance on immigration and public safety. In the wake of increasing tensions surrounding President-elect Donald Trump's immigration policies, Hochul has taken a firm position that distinguishes between lawful asylum-seekers and those who commit crimes. She has made it clear that if an individual is found breaking the law, she will not hesitate to contact Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ensure they are deported. This statement echoes sentiments expressed by other Democratic leaders about the need for consequences for lawbreakers, even as many have condemned the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement strategies. This stance, however, has drawn criticism from certain sectors, particularly from within the New York Republican party. Rep. Mike Lawler, who is positioning himself for a gubernatorial run in 2026, sharply criticized Hochul, suggesting that her words had severe real-life consequences and alluding to a tragic incident where a victim, Laken Riley, could have been saved had there been stricter enforcement of immigration laws. Lawler's comments emphasize the complexities and heated debates surrounding immigration policy, especially as it relates to criminal activity within the state. While Hochul tries to balance her approach to immigration—supporting asylum-seekers' right to work yet committing to evicting those who break laws—her administration's popularity continues to be challenged. The political landscape in New York reflects the greater national discourse on immigration. Other governors, such as Gavin Newsom of California, have taken a more defiant approach against the Trump administration, promising to protect illegal immigrants in their states through legislative measures and public statements. Newsom has emphasized the importance of safeguarding the freedoms and rights of Californians against what he perceives as a federal overreach in immigration enforcement. In contrast, Hochul's commitment to calling ICE represents a possible shift or balancing act within the Democratic party as it faces pressure from more progressive elements within its base and the aspirations of some more conservative Democrats. As Hochul navigates this contentious terrain, her reelection prospects may depend significantly on public perception related to her immigration stance, which has already proven a point of contention among constituents. Critics argue that while she positions herself as a champion of the law, her past decisions, namely her role in declaring New York a sanctuary state, continue to haunt her. Hochul intends to focus on her governance duties for now, with the implications of her policies becoming a crucial talking point as debates about the state's handling of migrant inflows and immigration enforcement persist.