Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker delivered a forceful defense of the state’s sanctuary laws during a tense Congressional hearing on Wednesday, while directly criticizing former President Donald Trump for what he described as “abuses of power” targeting immigrants and state autonomy.
Testifying before the House Oversight Committee, Governor Pritzker pushed back against Republican lawmakers who claim that Illinois’ policies obstruct federal immigration enforcement. Pritzker made it clear: Illinois complies with federal law, but will not be coerced into becoming an extension of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“Unlike Donald Trump, Illinois follows the law,” Pritzker stated firmly. “This lawsuit isn’t about safety. It’s about political theater and fear-mongering.”
🛡️ Pritzker Defends Illinois’ TRUST Act
At the heart of the debate is Illinois’ TRUST Act, which limits local police cooperation with federal immigration agents unless a criminal warrant is issued. Pritzker argued the law helps build trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities, which improves public safety overall.
He emphasized that the policy does not protect violent criminals. In fact, individuals convicted of serious crimes are detained and handed over to federal authorities as permitted by law.
Pritzker accused the Trump administration of distorting the facts for political gain and using the Justice Department to bully states with differing immigration approaches.
⚖️ Legal and Constitutional Showdown
The Trump-aligned Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against Illinois, Cook County, and the city of Chicago, claiming sanctuary laws violate the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution by obstructing federal immigration enforcement.
Pritzker and legal experts argue otherwise, citing the Tenth Amendment and the anti-commandeering doctrine, which prevents the federal government from forcing states to implement or enforce federal laws.
“This is not only unconstitutional—it’s un-American,” said Pritzker. “States have rights too, and we intend to defend them.”
🔥 Political Divide on Display
The hearing showcased the sharp partisan divide on immigration policy:
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Republicans accused sanctuary states of releasing undocumented immigrants with criminal records, placing communities at risk.
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Democrats, including Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois, praised the governor’s approach, calling it “smart policy that saves lives and strengthens community trust.”
Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul (NY) and Governor Tim Walz (MN) joined Pritzker in defending their states’ sanctuary policies, stating they will not bow to federal intimidation.
🌎 Broader Implications
This legal and political battle could reshape the relationship between state governments and federal immigration enforcement. It also comes at a time when Donald Trump’s presidential campaign continues to spotlight border security as a central issue.
Despite political pressure, Pritzker affirmed:
“We will not allow the federal government to turn our police into immigration agents. Illinois will stand by its values—and its Constitution.”
