Tom Homan, the border czar, didn’t hold back in his criticism of Zohran Mamdani, a New York City mayoral candidate advocating for sanctuary policies. During an interview with Fox News, Homan stated, “He can stand by and watch, but he’s not going to stop us from doing our operations.” His words underscore a firm stance against what he sees as misguided protections for illegal immigrants.
Mamdani’s call for New York to uphold its sanctuary city policies drew Homan’s ire, as he accused the candidate of “fear-mongering” and spreading misinformation about ICE. Homan pointed out that ICE does not conduct operations in schools, churches, or hospitals, rather emphasizing that “the law says it’s a crime to enter this country illegally.” He insisted that those crafting policies obstructing ICE are, in effect, violating the law.
With a warning to Mamdani, Homan said, “If he wants a sanctuary city, he won’t let us in Rikers Island, then we got to go into the neighborhood and find ’em.” His approach reflects a determination to step up immigration enforcement in response to local policies of protection. Homan clarified the operational protocols of ICE, explaining that if an illegal immigrant is found alongside others in the same situation, they too will be apprehended.
On the same day, Mamdani reiterated his commitment to sanctuary policies during a rally in Staten Island. He spoke to a crowd about the experiences of residents and framed the crackdown on illegal immigration as more punitive than practical. “It has to do with punishment,” he said, emphasizing a fight not just against authoritarianism, but for the identity of New York City as a sanctuary.
Homan’s remarks serve as a reminder that the clash over immigration enforcement in cities like New York is far from over. With a significant increase of ICE staff planned for New York City, the border czar made it clear that local leaders cannot impede federal operations aimed at enforcing the law. “So, he can hate on ICE all he wants,” Homan concluded, highlighting ongoing tensions between local and federal authorities.
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