Senator Padilla Declares California Won’t Assist ICE Deportations

Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) made it clear during a Sunday interview that California has no intention of cooperating with federal efforts to deport illegal aliens, including those who pose a threat to public safety. Padilla’s remarks come as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office with a renewed focus on securing the border and enforcing immigration laws.

Speaking on CBS News’ “Face The Nation” with Major Garrett, Padilla dismissed the idea that California should assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in its mission to enforce federal immigration laws. “No state government, not Texas, not California, not any state in the nation, has a constitutional authority to impose federal immigration law,” Padilla stated. “That is the responsibility of the federal government.”

Padilla emphasized that California, as a sanctuary state, would not “utilize state and local resources to do the federal government’s job for them.”

California’s refusal to aid federal immigration enforcement aligns with its status as a sanctuary state, a policy that many argue prioritizes political agendas over public safety. Padilla justified the stance by claiming it fosters trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement. “The last thing you want to do is have immigrants who are victims of crime afraid to come forward to report that crime,” he said.

However, critics argue that such policies allow dangerous individuals to remain in the country illegally:

• Sanctuary laws prevent ICE from detaining or deporting criminals already in custody.

• Illegal aliens with violent criminal records are often released back into communities instead of being turned over to federal authorities.

• Victims of crimes committed by illegal immigrants are left with no recourse due to the lack of cooperation between state and federal agencies.

Padilla’s comments also addressed Trump’s appointment of Tom Homan as the incoming border czar. Homan, a former acting ICE director, has pledged to prosecute officials who refuse to comply with federal immigration laws, stating that sanctuary policies endanger American lives.

“Unless that’s what Trump wants,” Padilla said of potential conflicts between state and federal officials, dismissing the administration’s renewed push for accountability. His comments ignore the reality that California’s widespread sanctuary policies already pit local officials against federal law enforcement.

As the most populous and diverse state in the country, California’s immigration policies set a tone for the nation. Yet, these policies have contributed to a growing crisis:

• Cost to Taxpayers: California spends an estimated $23 billion annually on services for illegal immigrants, including healthcare, education, and housing.

• Public Safety Concerns: High-profile cases, such as the killing of Kate Steinle in San Francisco, highlight the dangers of sanctuary policies.

• Strain on Resources: Law enforcement and social services are overwhelmed, further impacting legal residents and taxpayers.

President-elect Trump has vowed to end sanctuary policies and hold leaders accountable for obstructing federal law. His administration’s enforcement plans, led by Homan, aim to restore law and order by ensuring cooperation between state and federal agencies.

As Padilla and California Democrats double down on their refusal to comply, the battle lines are drawn. Trump’s commitment to protecting American citizens and enforcing immigration laws will directly challenge sanctuary states like California, setting up a legal and political showdown.

The question remains: Will California’s leaders prioritize the safety of their residents, or will they continue to shield illegal aliens at the expense of public trust and security?

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