Federal Showdown: Pam Bondi Takes on New York Over Immigration Policies

Attorney General Pam Bondi has announced that the Justice Department is filing a lawsuit against the state of New York, Governor Kathy Hochul, and State Attorney General Letitia James over immigration enforcement policies.

"We are taking steps to protect Americans," Bondi stated, accusing New York of prioritizing undocumented immigrants over American citizens. She noted that similar legal action had been taken against Illinois and warned that New York was next in line.

In response, James defended New York’s laws, including the Green Light law, asserting that they protect the rights of all New Yorkers and contribute to public safety. "I am prepared to defend our laws, just as I always have," she affirmed.

During a news conference, Tammy Nobles, whose daughter was murdered by an MS-13 gang member from El Salvador, spoke emotionally about her loss. Bondi cited the case as an example of the dangers posed by inadequate immigration enforcement.

The federal complaint alleges that New York laws unlawfully prevent cooperation between state and federal law enforcement agencies regarding immigration enforcement. Specifically, it claims that state officials are required to notify undocumented immigrants when federal agents seek information about their immigration status.

Notably absent from the lawsuit is New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The Justice Department recently directed prosecutors to drop their probe into Adams' office, stating that it hindered his ability to address illegal immigration and violent crime in his city. However, Bondi expressed hope that Adams would cooperate with federal authorities on sanctuary city policies.

Since assuming office, Bondi has issued directives aimed at defunding sanctuary jurisdictions that interfere with federal immigration enforcement. She has encouraged aggressive legal actions against such jurisdictions and vowed to hold them accountable.

Additionally, Bondi has focused on tackling transnational criminal organizations and drug cartels. She has advocated for deploying additional resources to combat illegal drug trafficking and pledged to work toward the complete dismantling of these organizations.

Last week, the Justice Department filed a similar lawsuit against Illinois, Chicago, and other local jurisdictions for allegedly obstructing federal immigration enforcement. Bondi's acting deputy, Emil Bove, has directed prosecutors nationwide to prioritize Trump administration immigration policies and consider legal action against noncompliant state and local officials.

During the press conference, Bondi was asked about tech mogul Elon Musk’s recent criticism of judges ruling against Trump administration policies. While she acknowledged the concerns, she clarified that impeachment efforts against federal judges were not currently being pursued, though the administration planned to appeal unfavorable rulings.

The lawsuit against New York marks the latest in a series of legal battles over immigration policy, reflecting an ongoing clash between federal and state governments on enforcement priorities.