New DOJ directive on sanctuary cities sparks internal revolt, prosecutors warn politics not law drive key decisions
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Following the DC takeover, Trump sets his eye on other blue cities, especially the “sanctuary cities.” In response, DOJ staff are resigning in protest. (MEHMET ESER / Getty Images)
The Justice Department is in turmoil as the Trump administration intensifies efforts to penalize sanctuary cities, prompting multiple resignations among senior attorneys who say they were sidelined in the enforcement push.
Since January 2025, the administration has rolled out a series of executive actions aimed at jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Executive Order 14287, signed in April, requires the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Homeland Security (DHS) to identify and pursue legal remedies against non-compliant cities. Meanwhile, the “Protecting the American People Against Invasion” order emphasizes enforcement against individuals unlawfully present in the U.S., with a focus on public safety threats.
Officials within the DOJ say the administration has sidelined career attorneys and replaced them with political appointees, prompting several high-level resignations. Critics describe the reshuffling as a political purge rather than a legitimate enforcement initiative.
Legal challenges from sanctuary cities are already underway. Courts in Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles have issued preliminary injunctions blocking attempts to withhold federal funding. The administration has signaled its intent to appeal, keeping the battles over federal authority versus local jurisdiction unresolved.
Despite the legal pushback, the administration is moving forward with enforcement operations. DHS plans to deploy hundreds of officers to cities like Chicago as part of a crackdown targeting sanctuary jurisdictions, focusing on individuals unlawfully present in the U.S., particularly those involved in criminal activity.
The developments highlight the administration’s aggressive posture on immigration, the tensions between federal and local governments, and internal strains within the DOJ as political priorities collide with career enforcement norms.
By
CK Smith
CK Smith is Salon’s weekend editor.
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