Denver Mayor’s Strategy for Collaborating with the Trump Administration
Mayor Mike Johnston of Denver has been actively engaged as the city experiences a significant increase in immigrants. Since 2023, approximately 40,000 immigrants have settled in Denver, which is situated just 640 miles north of El Paso, Texas. Johnston’s office reported to the Denver Gazette that it has assisted 5,000 newcomers in applying for asylum or work permits.
Following President Trump’s election, Johnston expressed his readiness to utilize civil disobedience, potentially facing jail time to prevent immigration enforcement actions within his city. Trump’s border official Tom Homan responded, stating, “We both agree on one thing: he’s willing to go to jail, and I’m prepared to put him there.”
Since then, Johnston has softened his rhetoric, explaining to Denver’s NBC affiliate that while he “isn’t afraid” of jail, he is “not seeking that.”
In January, he indicated a willingness to collaborate with ICE officers while assuring Denver’s Fox affiliate that the city would continue safeguarding schools, churches, and hospitals.
Understanding Sanctuary Cities
Sanctuary policies typically refer to regulations that allow jurisdictions to limit their compliance with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which collaborates with local law enforcement to execute federal immigration laws in non-sanctuary areas. Numerous local governments nationwide have imposed restrictions on how local authorities engage with ICE.
Supporters of sanctuary laws argue that compliance with ICE can deter individuals residing unlawfully in the country from reporting other crimes to local authorities. Consequently, these sanctuary policies contribute to a safer environment for immigrants.
While such policies have existed for decades, recent criticisms have surged as several Democratic-led municipalities faced challenges managing the influx of migrants entering the country under the Biden administration. Additionally, efforts by the Trump administration to bolster border security and pledge a significant mass deportation operation have intensified the conflict between federal mandates and local objectives.
Oversight Committee Chair to Hold Mayors “Publicly Accountable” During Hearing
James Comer, the Republican chairman of the House Oversight Committee from Kentucky, stated that his committee intends to “hold sanctuary mayors publicly accountable for their refusal to comply with the law and for placing American lives at risk.”
Comer, who initiated an investigation into the mayors’ policies, praised the Trump administration for “rightfully acting against sanctuary cities,” claiming that city leaders have protected criminals and threatened public safety. He insisted that local governments that do not comply with federal immigration policies “should not receive any federal funding.”
The Kentucky Republican emphasized President Trump’s focus on border safety and the need to address illegal immigration, stressing that Congress should evaluate what additional measures are necessary while ensuring enforcement of federal law.
List of Mayors Scheduled to Testify Before the Committee
The following mayors are expected to testify in front of the GOP-led Oversight Committee:
- Michelle Wu – Mayor of Boston
- Brandon Johnson – Mayor of Chicago
- Mike Johnston – Mayor of Denver
- Eric Adams – Mayor of New York
