Representative Joe C. Sosnowski (R) | Illinois General Assembly
Representative Joe C. Sosnowski (R) | Illinois General Assembly
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Springfield on Wednesday, criticizing Illinois' sanctuary state policy for protecting undocumented immigrants. Secretary Noem stated that these policies have led to violence against American citizens, including serious crimes such as rape and murder, while shielding those responsible from facing legal consequences.
During her visit, she also criticized Governor Pritzker for allocating $1.6 billion in taxpayer funds to expand healthcare access to undocumented individuals.
In response to Secretary Noem's remarks, Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie urged state and local officials to repeal the policies favoring undocumented immigrants and focus on ensuring the safety of Illinois families. "Illinois must abandon its sanctuary state policies that have emboldened criminals, harmed families, and wasted billions in taxpayer dollars," said Leader McCombie.
McCombie further accused Governor Pritzker of prioritizing political ambitions over public safety: "Instead of doing his job to protect Illinois families, Governor Pritzker is focused on pandering to liberal primary voters for an election that's three years away."
Assistant Republican Leader CD Davidsmeyer echoed similar sentiments, urging the Governor to rescind the state's sanctuary policies. He linked the influx of illegal immigrants under President Biden's border policy with increased crime rates and budget strains. "The flood of illegal immigrants into Illinois under Biden’s Open Border Policy led to a string of horrific crimes," said Rep. Davidsmeyer.
Davidsmeyer has sponsored legislation (HB 1317) aimed at repealing the Illinois TRUST Act, which limits cooperation between law enforcement agencies and federal authorities regarding immigration enforcement. He argued that this bill would end Illinois' sanctuary status.
"Governor Pritzker’s failed sanctuary state policy has cost Illinois taxpayers billions of dollars and made our communities less safe," continued Rep. Davidsmeyer.
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