Attorney General Pam Bondi publicized on Wednesday that the Department of Justice is initiating a legal action against New York state, Governor Kathy Hochul and State Attorney General Letitia James over issues related to immigration enforcement. Bondi emphasized the commitment to safeguarding Americans and criticized New York for prioritizing illegal immigrants over its citizens.
During the press announcement, Bondi stated, “We have already instituted a lawsuit against Illinois and New York didn’t heed the warning, so now, they are next.” Responding to the impending lawsuit, James firmly stated, “Our state laws, including the Green Light law, protect the rights of all New Yorkers and ensure community safety. I am ready to defend our laws, as I always have.”
The press conference also featured an emotional testimony from Tammy Nobles, whose daughter was brutally murdered by an MS-13 gang member who immigrated from El Salvador. Bondi utilized the press conference to highlight allegations mentioned in the federal complaint that state officials in New York are lawfully required to notify undocumented immigrants when federal agents inquire about their immigration status.
Interestingly, New York City Mayor Eric Adams was not included in the lawsuit. On Tuesday, the Department of Justice advised prosecutors to temporarily halt their investigation into Mayor Adams’ office. The legal case was viewed as a distraction for the Mayor, preventing him from focusing on addressing illegal immigration and violent crime issues in his city, which escalated during former President Biden’s term.
Bondi expressed hope that Mayor Adams would cooperate in dealing with sanctuary cities and illegal immigrants. While the case against Adams has not been officially dismissed, Bondi anticipates charges to be dropped soon by federal prosecutors.
Bondi, in the initial hours of her tenure as attorney general, issued several directives aimed at sanctuary jurisdictions, ordering an end to funding for any that “unlawfully interfere with federal law enforcement operations.” She urged the department to take enforcement actions against sanctuary cities or states that resist complying with the federal government’s immigration enforcement efforts.
The attorney general also focused on cartels and transnational criminal organizations, highlighting that additional resources and strategic charging decisions would be crucial in combating illegal drug trafficking. She emphasized the department’s commitment to the complete eradication of these groups.
Last week, the Justice Department launched a lawsuit against Illinois, Chicago, and other local jurisdictions, alleging their laws obstructed the Trump administration’s enhanced immigration enforcement in the area.
During the press conference, Bondi also addressed queries about Elon Musk’s critique of judges who have ruled against the Trump administration’s recent actions. Although she hadn’t seen the comments, Bondi clarified that impeachment efforts are currently not being considered, but added that the administration would appeal the rulings against it.
