Mayor Mike Johnston faces Congress over immigration policies

In recent weeks, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has found himself amidst escalating tensions regarding immigration policies. The U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, comprising 26 Republicans and 27 Democrats, delivered a formal letter to Johnston, requesting him to testify on February 11 in Washington, D.C. The committee specifically targets Denver and similar cities like Chicago, New York City, and Boston for their so-called 'sanctuary city' policies, which hinder federal immigration enforcement. These policies have garnered support from various local leaders, who argue that their stance benefits the community by allowing immigrants to contribute to society without fear of deportation. Johnston's administration has dealt with the arrival of over 40,000 migrants in Denver since early 2023, a situation attributed to decisions made by other state leaders, particularly the governor of Texas, who initiated busing migrants to various U.S. cities, including Denver. While Johnston is committed to providing resources and support to these families, he has expressed frustration with the federal government and Congressional Republicans. He criticized their failures to act on immigration reform, emphasizing that local leaders must manage the consequences of these failures. The growing fear within immigrant communities has prompted Johnston to vocalize his determination to protect these families, stressing his unwillingness to capitulate to pressure from federal officials. Additionally, he mentioned the need to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the arrest of violent criminals, while reiterating that Denver does not inquire about immigration status, nor does it share this information were it's not legally mandated. This balancing act has resulted in rising tensions, with Johnston indicating potential legal battles ahead. As a strong proponent of local governance in immigration matters, he maintains that Denver will uphold its values, despite being labeled a 'sanctuary city' by critics. The upcoming testimony may shed light on the complex dynamics of immigration policy at the local and federal levels, as well as the impact on Denver residents amidst national debates on immigration reform.