The mayors of Boston, Chicago, Denver, and New York faced tough questions from Republicans in Congress about their cities’ sanctuary policies. These policies limit cooperation with federal immigration agents. Republicans argued the rules protect criminals and make communities less safe. Democrats defended the policies, saying they help police solve crimes by building trust with immigrants.
Chairman James Comer said sanctuary cities create “a public safety nightmare” by letting dangerous illegal immigrants stay on the streets. He blamed these policies for crimes committed by people who shouldn’t be in the country. Republicans warned the mayors could face legal trouble for ignoring federal laws. They said cities risk losing taxpayer money if they keep defying President Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration.
The mayors claimed their cities are safer because immigrants aren’t afraid to report crimes to police. Chicago’s Brandon Johnson said crime rates are dropping, and Boston’s Michelle Wu said her city is the “safest major city in the nation.” But Republicans shot back that ICE agents face bigger risks when cities won’t help them arrest illegal immigrants. They called it unfair to put federal officers in danger because local leaders won’t follow the law.
Boston taxpayers spent $650,000 on lawyers to help Mayor Wu get ready for the hearing. Critics say that money should have gone to fix streets or help schools instead of defending policies that break federal rules. New York’s Eric Adams admitted the migrant crisis cost his city $6.9 billion. Many wonder why cities keep spending billions to help illegal immigrants while struggling citizens go without.
Adams took heat for working with the Trump administration after facing federal corruption charges. Republicans praised him for letting ICE back into Rikers Island jail, but Democrats accused him of selling out to save his career. It’s clear the hearing was as much about politics as policy, with both sides trying to win public opinion ahead of the next election.
The mayors insisted they follow all laws, but Republicans say that’s not enough. They want cities to actively help deport illegal immigrants, not just avoid breaking rules. With President Trump pushing mass deportations, these clashes will only get worse. The GOP vows to cut funding and take legal action against cities that keep resisting.
While Democrats talk about “compassion,” Republicans say sanctuary policies put illegal immigrants ahead of American citizens. They argue cities should focus on fixing homelessness, crime, and high taxes instead of spending billions on non-citizens. Until Congress passes new immigration laws, this fight between local leaders and Washington will keep dividing the country.
The hearing showed a deep split on how to handle immigration. Republicans want strict enforcement to protect communities, while Democrats prioritize helping immigrants over obeying federal rules. With safety, taxes, and the rule of law at stake, this battle over sanctuary cities is far from over.
