President Donald Trump, marking the 100th day of his second term, is delivering on one of his key campaign promises: to take a tougher stance on the so called illegal immigration.
On Tuesday, he signed an executive order specifically targeting “sanctuary cities,” several of which are located in Massachusetts.
According to NBC10 Boston, the new directive expands the powers of law enforcement in municipalities that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The order also requires states and federal agencies to compile official lists of these jurisdictions.
Massachusetts is home to eight such cities: Amherst, Boston, Cambridge, Chelsea, Concord, Newton, Northampton, and Somerville. As reported by The Washington Post and cited by NBC10 Boston, these municipalities could face the loss of federal funding and potential legal action if they continue their current sanctuary policies.
NBC10 Boston also notes that the Trump administration has asked the Department of Justice to explore potential civil rights investigations against cities that are seen as prioritizing undocumented immigrants over U.S. citizens.
This executive order comes amid a wave of intensified deportations in recent months, particularly in the Boston area, where a sweep in January led to the detention of numerous immigrants—some reportedly without due process. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is also preparing for additional arrests in the region, according to the local outlet.
In response to the federal action, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has reaffirmed her commitment to maintaining Boston as a sanctuary city. During testimony before Congress earlier this year, she defended sanctuary policies and criticized Republican priorities. “If your goal is truly to keep us safe, pass gun control laws, stop cutting healthcare, medical research, and support for veterans,” she said, according to NBC10 Boston.
This executive order reflects Donald Trump’s determination to place immigration at the center of public debate and his political agenda. It also increases pressure on progressive cities across the country, particularly in states like Massachusetts.
