DHS Secretary Mullin Slams Sanctuary Cities in 9/11 Anniversary Speech

POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin delivered a strong critique of sanctuary cities during a speech marking the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Mullin accused jurisdictions that limit collaboration between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies of creating conditions that could enable future terrorist acts. He stated that these cities, while claiming to act on humanitarian grounds, are not supporting law enforcement and instead fostering environments where terrorism could thrive.

Sanctuary cities typically prevent local police from assisting with federal immigration enforcement, though they do not block federal agents from operating within their borders. Supporters argue that such cooperation can erode trust in local police and strain municipal resources. Despite this, federal agencies retain legal authority to conduct arrests and detentions.

The Trump administration has long opposed sanctuary cities and has threatened to withhold federal funding from them. Meanwhile, public perception of the Department of Homeland Security has shifted under the administration, with growing support for abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to recent polls.

Mullin also addressed the politicization of the department, questioning why it has become controversial despite its mission to protect all Americans. Former DHS officials have called for a return to the agency’s core security focus, as criticism of its tactics has grown.

In response to these concerns, a DHS spokesperson emphasized the connection between counterterrorism and immigration enforcement, stating that issues like child exploitation, trafficking, and smuggling often intersect with illegal immigration. The department has maintained that it remains capable of safeguarding the country against evolving threats.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)