WASHINGTON — Democratic mayors representing Boston, Chicago, Denver, and New York City stood firm in their defense of sanctuary city laws during a heated congressional hearing on immigration policies. The hearing, held by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, saw Republicans accuse the mayors of undermining law enforcement and public safety by limiting local cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Mayor Michelle Wu of Boston, alongside Brandon Johnson of Chicago, Mike Johnston of Denver, and Eric Adams of New York City, faced intense questioning about their cities' immigration policies. Many Republican lawmakers, including Committee Chairman James Comer, portrayed the mayors as contributors to rising crime rates, linking their sanctuary policies to public safety threats. Comer controversially opened the hearing by stating that sanctuary policies “only create sanctuary for criminals.”

In response, the mayors stressed that their policies aimed to build trust within immigrant communities and ensure that all residents, regardless of immigration status, could access vital services without fear of deportation. Adams articulated the critical connection between public health and safety, stating, “If an undocumented person refuses to seek medical care until they have a medical emergency, our city's healthcare system will be strained.”

During the hearing, Ayanna Pressley, a Massachusetts Democrat, attempted to present data showing that immigration is not correlated with higher crime rates, but her efforts were rebuffed by Comer, leading to a heated exchange that underscored the stark partisan divide on this issue. Videos of the altercation circulated widely on social media, indicating the level of tension surrounding the hearing.

The mayors also highlighted that their jurisdictions comply with federal law while enforcing local priorities that reflect community needs and concerns. They articulated that collaboration with federal immigration enforcement often results in further alienation of immigrant communities, undermining law enforcement's efforts to maintain safety.

As the hearing continued, the congressional debate over immigration policy reflected deep divisions not only within Congress but also across American cities. Critics argue that sanctuary cities are essential in protecting vulnerable populations, while opponents claim they foster an environment conducive to crime.

For more details on the contentious hearing and the responses from the mayors, visit Los Angeles Times.