Michigan Communities Push Back Against DHS Sanctuary City Designation

Michigan Communities Challenge Sanctuary City Designation by DHS

The issue of sanctuary cities has sparked significant debate as several communities in Michigan find themselves labeled by the Trump administration as non-compliant with federal immigration laws. This designation has raised questions and concerns among local officials and residents alike.

In a recent announcement, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identified six counties—Oakland, Wayne, Kalamazoo, Wexford, Kent, and Washtenaw—as well as two cities, Ann Arbor and East Lansing, as jurisdictions that allegedly do not adhere to federal immigration policies.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem condemned these jurisdictions, asserting, “These sanctuary city politicians are endangering Americans and our law enforcement in order to protect violent criminal illegal aliens.” The administration’s next step includes formally notifying these communities about their suspected violations of federal law.

However, several officials from these Michigan areas have pushed back against the designation. Ann Arbor’s city administrator, Milton Dohoney Jr., expressed the city's stance, stating, “Our city has never declared or identified itself as a sanctuary city. We would never take an action to obstruct the actions of any other law enforcement agency from carrying out their duties.”

Similarly, Oakland County officials are contesting their inclusion on the list, with County Executive David Coulter and Sheriff Michael Bouchard expressing confidence in their compliance with federal regulations. They remarked, “We are confident that the county’s policies and practices comply with federal law and we were incorrectly placed on this list.”

Concerns extend to Wexford County, where State Senator Michele Hoitenga mentioned that steps had previously been taken to ensure the county was removed from a similar sanctuary designation. Hoitenga insisted on the urgency to rectify the situation, affirming that Wexford County firmly abides by legal standards.

As communities prepare to challenge the allegations, there are potential ramifications looming, particularly with respect to federal funding. An executive order issued in April mandates a review of federal financial support to sanctuary jurisdictions, possibly leading to the suspension of funds.