Cities led by Democrats take steps to resist Immigration and Customs Enforcement

February 18, 2026 • Google News World

Cities led by Democrats are implementing measures to block Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities, sparking a potential clash with the Trump administration. These efforts include establishing ICE-free zones and blocking liquor licenses for businesses that cooperate with the agency.

In contrast, President Trump has been recruiting local law enforcement officers to assist in immigration efforts. Some states have expressed opposition to this initiative, citing concerns about the impact on community trust and public safety.

Additionally, agreements between local police departments and ICE have increased significantly during the Trump administration. These partnerships allow ICE agents to access local law enforcement resources and intelligence, but critics argue that they compromise the agencies’ independence and create a culture of fear among immigrant communities.

US cities are taking steps to push back against these policies, including establishing “sanctuary” zones where ICE is not allowed to conduct operations. Some cities have also implemented measures to restrict businesses from cooperating with ICE, such as blocking liquor licenses for establishments that participate in the agency’s programs.

The Trump administration has been actively recruiting local officers to aid in immigration efforts, with thousands of officers reportedly participating in these initiatives. However, some states are resisting this effort, citing concerns about the impact on their communities and the potential erosion of trust between law enforcement agencies and immigrant populations.

Source: Google News World