Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin expressed his considerations regarding the potential withdrawal of customs agents from international airports situated in sanctuary cities, arguing that such sanctuary policies lack legal standing. During an interview with Fox News, he stated, “I believe sanctuary cities are not lawful. I don’t think they have the authority to implement these policies.”
Sanctuary cities typically enact local policies that restrict cooperation between law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, a practice that has been in place for many years and has generally withstood various legal challenges.
Mullin elaborated on his concerns, particularly regarding the implications for cities with international airports. “If these areas are designated as sanctuary cities, can they truly process customs for incoming flights? It raises a serious question. If they are welcoming international travelers and yet refuse to engage with immigration enforcement once those individuals leave the airport, what is the point of partnership?”
He emphasized that immigration enforcement is fundamentally a federal responsibility, not a local one. Mullin also pointed out that there are ongoing discussions among Democrats about defunding Customs and Border Protection (CBP), highlighting the essential role of the agency in processing individuals arriving from overseas. “Who handles the processing when these individuals disembark? I will have to make tough decisions regarding who is willing to collaborate with us,” he remarked.
CBP operates with an annual budget of approximately $20 billion and received an additional $65 billion through a significant spending bill during the Trump administration. Mullin’s proposal could significantly impact operations at some of the busiest airports in the nation, including Denver International, JFK in New York City, and Los Angeles International Airport.
In a separate development, the U.S. Department of Education has terminated agreements with five school districts and one college that were established to protect the rights of transgender students. These agreements were set up during previous administrations, including those of Biden and Obama, which interpreted Title IX protections as applicable to LGBTQ+ individuals. In contrast, the Trump administration has adopted a different stance.
This recent announcement marks the first instance of the Trump administration rescinding existing civil rights settlements with educational institutions. Meanwhile, Arizona Representative Yassamin Ansari has announced plans to introduce articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, citing concerns over President Trump’s statements and actions.
Ansari criticized Trump’s rhetoric, particularly remarks made on Easter Sunday, claiming that they are exacerbating global tensions and could lead to unlawful military actions. “He is inciting a situation that could result in war crimes, violating both U.S. law and the Geneva Conventions,” she stated, urging Republicans to join in calling for an end to what she described as a perilous conflict.
“Only Congress holds the authority to declare war, not an unrestrained president or his associates,” Ansari asserted, expressing her alarm over what she termed reckless endangerment.
