Homeland Security Secretary Mullin Questions Customs Processing in Sanctuary Cities with International Airports

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin spoke on Fox News's "Special Report" on Monday about cooperation between cities with international airports and the Department of Homeland Security. Mullin questioned whether sanctuary cities that do not enforce immigration policies should continue processing international arrivals.

He indicated that the department may need to prioritize cities willing to partner on enforcement.

Mullin, recently confirmed by the Senate, referenced ongoing challenges with immigration enforcement in certain jurisdictions. His predecessor, former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, led operations in cities led by Democrats and identified 500 cities, counties, and states obstructing federal immigration laws.

Last August, former Attorney General Pam Bondi sent a warning letter to 32 sanctuary jurisdictions, urging compliance with federal law or facing repercussions.

" — Markwayne Mullin (The Hill) President Trump issued an executive order last year directing a crackdown on cities not complying with federal immigration authorities. Mullin stated he plans to implement similar measures. He emphasized that decisions would stay within policies passed by Congress.

addressed the partial government shutdown and funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

The Senate recently passed a bill unanimously to fund most of DHS, excluding Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol. House Republicans rejected the bill and proposed funding DHS in its entirety. Mullin explained that the Senate bill essentially defunded ICE and Customs and Border Patrol, which created difficulties for Republicans.

He noted discussions with President Trump, lasting over five hours in the Oval Office, to establish a plan. The talks focused on ending the shutdown effectively. Mullin indicated plans to use reconciliation to fund Customs and Border Patrol for three years.

This approach aims to remove those agencies from future budget negotiations. He expressed concern that without this, Democrats might attempt to hold the country hostage again, leading to another shutdown by the fiscal year end on September 30th. The fiscal year ends on September 30th, prompting urgency in funding decisions.

Mullin's comments highlight tensions between branches of government on immigration and border security priorities. Affected parties include international travelers, airport operations, and local governments in sanctuary jurisdictions.