Is the Era of Sanctuary Cities and States Going to Come to an End?
PJ MediaMAY 1
20 States Sue Trump Over Conditional Federal Funding
Above: New York Attorney General Letitia James hosts a town hall at SUNY Westchester Community College to hear from residents about the impact of President Donald Trump's policies on their lives on May 8, 2025, in Valhalla, N.Y. Image copyright: Spencer Platt/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Democratic narrative
Trump's threat to cut federal funding from states resisting his immigration policies is a blatant power grab, violating the Constitution's Spending Clause and state sovereignty. These lawsuits are essential to stop this coercive scheme, which holds hostage billions for roads, airports, and disaster relief. It's a stand against authoritarianism, protecting communities from Trump's complete disregard for the law.
Republican narrative
These lawsuits are justified only in the minds of corrupt liberal state officials. Trump's actions uphold federal supremacy and public safety, not tyranny. These rogue policies fuel chaos, demanding a fierce federal response to restore law and order. Even sanctuary cities like New York City, overwhelmed by crime from unchecked immigration, now plead for federal intervention, with bipartisan council members urging the DOJ to dismantle laws protecting criminal aliens.