City Councilmember Rue Landau said city leaders “should not be intimidated by such tactics.”
Since President Trump was sworn in for his second term, his administration intensified immigration enforcement efforts, leading to a series of high-profile raids across the United States. These operations have sparked widespread concern and debate among local communities, officials, and advocacy groups. Undeterred, Trump’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced it has arrested more than 2,300 illegal aliens, targeting those with additional criminal backgrounds, particularly violent crimes. It has been reported that the goal for ICE is 1,200-1,500 arrests nationwide per day.
Philadelphia is expecting ICE raids given its status as a “sanctuary city”. Reports emerged of ICE activities in areas like Upper Darby, where day laborers often gather for work opportunities. Although specific details were scarce, the pervasive fear among immigrant communities was palpable. Local organizations and residents expressed deep apprehension about the potential for increased enforcement actions in their neighborhoods.
The Trump administration also rescinded previous guidelines that limited ICE operations in “sensitive locations.” Under prior policies, places such as schools, churches, and daycare centers were generally off-limits for enforcement actions to protect vulnerable populations and maintain community trust. The removal of these protections has led to heightened anxiety among immigrants and advocates. Celebrities such as Wendell Pierce, famous for his role in hit HBO show The Wire, have spoken out against heightened immigration enforcement. When pop star and actress Selena Gomez released a video on social media sobbing over the deportation of criminal illegal aliens, Border Czar Tom Homan responded by saying “It is all for the good of this nation, and we’re gonna keep going. No apologies. We’re moving forward.”
In Newark, New Jersey, ICE agents conducted a raid at a local business, detaining several individuals. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka condemned the operation, stating that agents acted without producing a warrant. He emphasized that the city would not tolerate such actions, which he described as “egregious” and a form of unlawful terrorization.
Local officials in Pennsylvania have responded with defiance to reports that the Justice Department is encouraging the investigation of state and local politicians if their immigration policies and practices obstruct federal immigration enforcement. Despite the administration’s pressure, many Pennsylvania politicians remain steadfast in their commitment to sanctuary policies, arguing that local law enforcement should not be compelled to act as federal immigration agents. They assert that such federal overreach infringes upon states’ rights and damages community relations.
While the Trump administration is focusing on removing those already in the country illegally, new data shows that after just his second week back in office, illegal border crossings have plummeted to less than 600 a day.
