Federal Judge Upholds Illinois ‘Sanctuary’ Policies, Dismissing Trump-Era Lawsuit
Federal Judge Upholds Illinois ‘Sanctuary’ Policies, Dismissing Trump-Era Lawsuit
A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Trump administration that aimed to block several “sanctuary policies” in Illinois. These state laws restrict local officials from assisting federal immigration authorities in detainment operations.
In a comprehensive 64-page decision, U.S. District Judge Lindsay C. Jenkins, a Joe Biden appointee, granted Illinois’ motion to dismiss the case. Judge Jenkins determined that the United States lacked the standing to sue over the sanctuary policies, affirming Illinois’ right to enact such laws under the 10th Amendment.
The ruling emphasized that Illinois’ decision not to participate in enforcing civil immigration law is protected by the Tenth Amendment and is not preempted by the Immigration and Nationality Act. The judge further stated that granting the administration’s request would constitute an “end-run around the Tenth Amendment,” allowing the federal government to improperly commandeer states.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker lauded the dismissal, asserting it ensures state law enforcement will not be compelled to carry out what he termed the Trump administration’s “unlawful policies or troubling tactics.” Pritzker reiterated that Illinois would cooperate with federal authorities when legal warrants are presented for violent criminals, but would not participate in actions deemed violations of law or abuses of power.
The original lawsuit, filed by the Trump Justice Department in February, targeted Illinois and Cook County (home to Chicago) over policies it argued infringed on federal immigration enforcement. This was part of a broader Trump administration effort against “sanctuary jurisdictions” nationwide, which included similar legal actions against New York City, New York state, and Los Angeles, alongside executive orders threatening to withhold federal funds from such localities.
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