Tennessee’s Governor Proposes Plan to Bolster Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has announced a robust plan to support President Donald Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration, reaffirming the state’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and enhancing public safety. The governor’s proposals, unveiled Wednesday, include legislative measures that strengthen immigration enforcement, tighten state ID laws, and penalize sanctuary city policies.

“Tennessee has a long track record of stepping up to secure our Nation’s borders and strengthening public safety,” Lee said. “President Trump has made it clear that states will play a major role in partnering with his Administration to enforce immigration laws and keep communities safe, and Tennessee is heeding the call.”

The governor’s proposal, backed by Republican leadership in the state legislature, includes several significant reforms:

• Creation of a Centralized Immigration Enforcement Division: This new division under the Department of Safety will include a chief immigration enforcement officer appointed by the governor. The officer will work directly with federal authorities to implement Trump administration policies.

• Tightening ID Laws: State-issued IDs will be limited to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and those with federal authorization for a specified period. Non-citizen IDs will feature a distinctive mark, and proof of citizenship will be required for renewing or reinstating driver’s licenses.

• Sanctuary City Crackdown: The legislation proposes felony charges for local officials who enact sanctuary city policies. Convictions could result in removal proceedings initiated by the state attorney general. While Tennessee does not officially have sanctuary cities, accusations of limited ICE cooperation in Democrat-led areas like Memphis underscore the need for these measures.

• Support for Local Law Enforcement: A grant program will provide funding for training and equipment to help local law enforcement align with federal and state immigration policies.

Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) praised the governor’s initiative, calling it a model for the nation. “With this legislation, Tennessee continues to lead the nation in fighting illegal immigration,” Johnson said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Trump administration to uphold the rule of law and protect state sovereignty.”

The plan reflects a broader shift in immigration enforcement under President Trump, with states playing a pivotal role in supporting federal efforts. By introducing measures that prioritize security and cooperation with ICE, Tennessee is setting a precedent for other states to follow.

The proposal also highlights a sharp contrast with Democrat-led policies that undermine enforcement and promote sanctuary cities. These measures affirm Tennessee’s stance on illegal immigration: strong borders, clear laws, and accountability for those who fail to enforce them.

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