WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump is scheduled to sign two executive orders aimed at enhancing immigration enforcement and shedding light on jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal law enforcement, as confirmed by press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
The signing on April 28 coincides with the 99th day of Trump's second term in office. The Republican administration is prioritizing stricter border enforcement, with a focus on reducing what border czar Tom Homan described as "historic low" levels of border crossings.
During a White House briefing, Leavitt emphasized the importance of obeying and respecting the law, as well as not obstructing federal immigration officials and law enforcement. The administration is committed to enforcing immigration laws.
The first order aims to empower law enforcement to pursue and protect citizens, while the second order tasks Attorney General Pam Bondi and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem with identifying sanctuary jurisdictions that impede federal immigration law enforcement.
Homan announced plans to visit Rochester, New York, to show support for local law enforcement following disciplinary actions against officers who assisted a Homeland Security official in need of emergency aid.
Leavitt's announcement comes amid ongoing legal battles with sanctuary cities and states, including the recent arrest of a Wisconsin judge for allegedly interfering with federal authorities attempting to apprehend an unauthorized immigrant.
Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan faces charges of interfering with a federal law enforcement operation and unlawfully concealing an individual subject to arrest. Trump criticized Dugan as "terrible" and a group of cities and counties have filed a lawsuit against the administration's funding restrictions for sanctuary jurisdictions.
U.S. District Judge William Orrick in San Francisco blocked the policy, ruling that the government cannot compel cooperation from cities like Minneapolis, Portland, Santa Fe, and Seattle. In addition to defending against legal challenges, the Trump administration has also taken legal action against jurisdictions that limit cooperation with immigration enforcement.
Leavitt emphasized public support for enforcing immigration laws and the administration's commitment to addressing the issue of illegal immigration.