The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today issued a comprehensive list identifying cities, counties, and states it deems “sanctuary jurisdictions.”
The department asserts these localities are deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws, thereby undermining the rule of law and endangering American citizens and law enforcement personnel.
The move follows an Executive Order signed by President Donald J. Trump on April 28, 2025. The order mandated DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi to identify and publicly highlight jurisdictions that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
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In a statement, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem condemned the targeted jurisdictions.
“These sanctuary city politicians are endangering Americans and our law enforcement in order to protect violent criminal illegal aliens,” said Noem. “We are exposing these sanctuary politicians who harbor criminal illegal aliens and defy federal law. President Trump and I will always put the safety of the American people first. Sanctuary politicians are on notice: comply with federal law.”
According to DHS, each listed jurisdiction will receive formal notification of its non-compliance and will be informed of all potential violations of federal criminal statutes. The department is demanding an immediate review and revision of local policies to align with federal immigration laws, emphasizing an obligation to “protect American citizens, not dangerous illegal aliens.”
The administration’s criteria for labeling a jurisdiction a “sanctuary” include policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities, such as refusing to honor detainer requests from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or restricting local law enforcement from inquiring about an individual’s immigration status.
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This action is the latest in a series of efforts by the Trump administration to compel local and state governments to fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
Attorney General Pam Bondi had previously issued memos and initiated legal actions against jurisdictions with sanctuary policies earlier in 2025. The Executive Order also directs federal agencies to identify potential federal funds that could be withheld from non-compliant jurisdictions.
The DHS has stated that the list will be updated regularly and that it is committed to using all available legal means to bring sanctuary jurisdictions into compliance with federal law. The long-term impact of this designation and the potential withholding of federal funds remain to be seen, likely facing legal challenges.
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