Washington State Stands Firm Against Threats from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi on Sanctuary Policies
Washington state is standing firm against threats from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi regarding sanctuary policies. Bondi warned of potential consequences, including cutting off federal grants and prosecuting officials who obstruct federal immigration enforcement efforts. Gov. Bob Ferguson emphasized that Washington will not be intimidated by these threats and will not compromise its values.
The Keep Washington Working Act, passed in 2019, limits the role of local law enforcement in aiding federal immigration enforcement. It prohibits local police from arresting or detaining individuals based solely on their immigration status and restricts local jails from holding individuals for federal custody without a warrant or court order. Ferguson believes that Washington's law is in compliance with federal law and will withstand any legal challenges.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell also received a letter from Bondi naming the city as a sanctuary jurisdiction. Bondi sent similar letters to other Democratic "sanctuary" jurisdictions, warning them to comply with federal policies or face consequences. Ferguson and Harrell, along with immigration rights advocates, expressed their commitment to defending their values and residents against federal pressure.
Other Democratic officials across the country, including Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and California Governor Gavin Newsom, have pushed back against Bondi's threats. Newsom warned that Department of Justice lawyers could face ethics complaints for filing baseless criminal charges over sanctuary policies. Washington state Republican Party Chairman Jim Walsh criticized Ferguson's response, urging cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to focus on deporting criminal immigrants.
State Rep. Julio Cortes, D-Everett, emphasized that the Keep Washington Working Act protects immigrant communities and allows local law enforcement to focus on their duties. He stated that fear will not dictate how neighbors are treated. Washington state remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding its values and protecting its residents against federal pressure.