John Adams said that we are a government of laws, not of men. As
we approach the Fourth of July week, we recognize that America's
foundation is that of the rule of law. Yet too often we have seen local
jurisdictions ignore Federal immigration law and declare themselves
sanctuary cities, as though their actions have no consequences for
their law-abiding neighbors. The reality, however, is that the localities that refuse to enforce
Federal immigration law undermine public safety and break the
democratic contract. Mr. Speaker, the sanctuary cities do not act in a
vacuum. They endanger lives and set dangerous precedent. To many people, it would seem obvious that local and State law
enforcement should comply with Federal immigration laws and cooperate
with its fair enforcement by communicating openly with Federal
officials. It would also seem clear that jurisdictions that ignore
these laws should forfeit the Federal funds set aside to support
compliance with those same laws. Despite this, sanctuary cities oppose Federal immigration officials
routinely. These men and women find themselves handicapped by local
officials implementing obstructionist policies. In light of this, Mr.
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