Trump Administration Releases List of Sanctuary Cities and Counties as Targets for Enforcement
In a move that underscores the Trump administration’s renewed focus on immigration enforcement, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released an official list of U.S. cities and counties labeled as “sanctuary jurisdictions.” These are areas where local authorities have limited cooperation with federal immigration officials, particularly regarding the detention and transfer of undocumented immigrants.
The list, which includes more than 50 jurisdictions, spans major metropolitan areas such as New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Austin, along with entire counties and states like California and New Jersey. These places have policies that restrict law enforcement or jails from honoring ICE detainer requests—notifications that ask local authorities to hold individuals in custody so immigration officials can take over.
Homeland Security officials stated that these sanctuary areas will now be prioritized for targeted immigration enforcement actions, including increased ICE presence, worksite investigations, and audits of public services accessed by undocumented individuals.
"We are making it clear: cities that defy federal immigration law will be held accountable," said Acting DHS Secretary Tom Homan. "Public safety should never be compromised by political agendas."
The administration claims that sanctuary policies create safe havens for criminals, citing cases where undocumented immigrants released by local jails later committed violent crimes. Civil rights groups, however, argue that these policies protect families and allow immigrants to cooperate with local police without fear of deportation.
The list was made public just months ahead of the 2025 presidential election, signaling that immigration will once again be a centerpiece of Trump’s platform. Legal challenges are expected, particularly from local governments and advocacy organizations that maintain these policies protect due process and community trust.
What This Means for Immigrants Living in Sanctuary Jurisdictions
If you or your family live in one of the areas named on the DHS list, you could be at higher risk for immigration enforcement. Even if you’ve never had legal issues or are in the process of seeking immigration relief, you may still face unexpected scrutiny.
How VisaLex Can Help
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Source: Based on original reporting by The Wall Street Journal (June 2025)