Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, during a Friday appearance on Fox News’ The Ingraham Angle, stated that she is prepared to take action against mayors of sanctuary cities who defy federal immigration laws if directed by President Donald Trump. When pressed by host Laura Ingraham about whether the administration would enforce consequences on officials resisting federal authority, Noem emphasized, “Nobody’s above the law. Of course we will. But that’s up to President Trump.
President Trump gives us direction. I don’t sit here and make up decisions on what I do. I follow the law.” She added, “We treat everybody the same in this country now that we have President Trump in the White House, and he’s going to give us direction on how we’re going to address these individuals.”
Noem also criticized sanctuary cities, arguing that their policies hinder federal efforts. “The reality is, these sanctuary cities, their laws have caused us problems. They are limiting some of the tools we want in our toolbox, but we’re going to continue our operations and demonstrate to other cities how our approach works. We’ll share our story with the American people,” she said. “The people in these communities need to hear how their mayors and elected officials are protecting criminals.”
In related news, President Trump signed the Laken Riley Act into law last week, marking his administration’s first major illegal immigration reform since taking office. The legislation, named after a Georgia nursing student allegedly killed by a Venezuelan migrant with a prior shoplifting arrest, requires the detention of immigrants without legal status—including asylum seekers—if they are accused of crimes like theft, burglary, or shoplifting.
The bill, a key campaign promise for Trump and congressional Republicans, passed the House with a 263-156 vote, gaining support from only 46 Democrats. This marked a notable shift for many in the party, as Democrats had largely opposed similar measures last year.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) had vowed swift action on the bill, reflecting the renewed focus on immigration and border security in Washington following Trump’s campaign emphasis on these issues.
According to NPR, the law underscores the administration’s commitment to stricter immigration enforcement, mandating the detention and deportation of individuals without legal status who are charged with minor theft or shoplifting offenses.