Los Angeles Stands Firm: City and Federal Government Clash Over Immigration Policies

The city of Los Angeles is in a legal showdown with the federal government. The U. S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Mayor Karen Bass, the L. A. City Council, and the city itself. The lawsuit claims that Los Angeles' sanctuary city law is illegal and is blocking federal immigration enforcement efforts. The federal government argues that the city's policy is making it harder to address illegal immigration. They say that Los Angeles is not cooperating with federal immigration authorities, even when asked. The lawsuit mentions recent immigration raids in Southern California, which led to protests and claims of violence. Mayor Bass has strongly disagreed with the federal government's portrayal of Los Angeles. She says that immigration agents are causing chaos and harming the city's economy. Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez also criticized the federal government, accusing it of tearing families apart and pushing a white nationalist agenda. Los Angeles' sanctuary city law was passed in early 2023 and finalized after the 2024 presidential election. The law prevents city employees and property from being used for immigration enforcement. It also bars city employees from asking about someone's immigration status unless it's needed for a city service. The federal government argues that the city's law violates the Supremacy Clause of the U. S. Constitution. They say the city is treating federal immigration authorities differently from other law enforcement agencies. The lawsuit also mentions a meeting where council members questioned the Police Chief about immigration raids. Meanwhile, the City Council is considering its own lawsuit against the federal government. They want to protect residents from being racially profiled or unlawfully searched or detained. Mayor Bass has been vocal about the harm caused by immigration raids, saying they have torn families apart and created a climate of fear. Legal experts have weighed in on the lawsuit. Chris Newman, legal director for the National Day Laborer Organizing Network, believes the lawsuit is symbolic and aims to pressure the city into complying with federal immigration policies. Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law, thinks the lawsuit conflicts with the 10th Amendment and that the federal government cannot force a city to use its resources for immigration enforcement.