WASHINGTON – The head of the Department of Homeland Security has renewed warnings that federal authorities may halt international passenger and cargo processing at major airports located in cities that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement policies, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Secretary Markwayne Mullin, who first issued this warning publicly in April amid budget negotiations, reiterated the threat during private discussions with travel industry leaders last week. Sources indicate that airports in Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, Seattle and San Francisco could face suspension of international operations if their cities continue resisting the Trump administration’s strict immigration policies.
The warning comes as federal officials clash with so-called “sanctuary cities” that have declined to assist with the current administration’s immigration crackdown efforts. The Atlantic previously reported on Mullin’s remarks to travel executives.
