Trump Administration Takes on Colorado and Denver: Lawsuit Claims Interference in Immigration Enforcement

DENVER (AP) — The Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Colorado and Denver, claiming they are hindering federal immigration laws. This marks another effort by the Trump administration to target what some call sanctuary cities.

The lawsuit argues that Colorado’s laws conflict with the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause. It states, “The United States has well-established, preeminent, and preemptive authority to regulate immigration matters.”

Sanctuary cities typically offer limited cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While ICE manages immigration enforcement nationally, it often relies on local law enforcement to help with deportations, asking for notifications when specific individuals are detained.

Past lawsuits against cities like Chicago and Rochester, New York, show this is part of an ongoing pattern. The DOJ claims that Colorado’s policies enabled the Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua, to take over an apartment complex in Aurora. Local officials have disputed this, saying the situation was exaggerated but acknowledging ongoing issues with crime in that area.

The lawsuit names several officials, including Governor Jared Polis, who stated Colorado does not consider itself a sanctuary state. “We regularly work with law enforcement at all levels,” he said, noting the state will comply with court decisions.

Republican lawmakers have pressured Democratic cities to align with the federal immigration agenda. Recently, mayors from Denver, Boston, New York, and Chicago were invited to testify before Congress. They argued their cities are welcoming and should be seen as safe places.

Recent statistics show that public opinion on immigration is split, with many Americans supporting comprehensive reform rather than punitive measures. According to a 2023 Pew Research survey, about 60% of respondents favor pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, highlighting a desire for change in immigration policy.

As the debate continues, the situation in Colorado serves as a crucial touchpoint. It reflects broader national conversations about community safety, local governance, and the complexities of immigration policy.

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