The Justice Department is suing New York State, Governor Kathy Hochul, and Attorney General Letitia James over immigration enforcement, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Wednesday.
“We’re taking action to protect Americans,” Bondi said, accusing New York of prioritizing illegal immigrants over citizens.
“We sued Illinois, and New York didn’t listen. Now, you’re next,” Bondi added.
In response, James defended New York’s laws, including the Green Light law, stating they protect all New Yorkers and ensure safety. “I stand ready to defend our laws,” she said in a statement to CBS News.
Bondi’s lawsuit claims New York officials must notify undocumented immigrants when federal agents request their immigration status, and that state laws obstruct federal and state enforcement of immigration laws.
Governor Hochul responded late Wednesday, calling the lawsuit “routine” and claiming the law, passed in 2019, has been upheld in courts. She also criticized the potential for federal agents to access New Yorkers’ personal data, pledging not to back down.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is not involved in the lawsuit, but the Justice Department has temporarily halted its investigation into his office. Bondi hopes Adams will cooperate on sanctuary cities and immigration issues.
Bondi also issued directives against sanctuary jurisdictions and emphasized the need to comply with federal immigration laws.
