Johnson weighing congressional invite to testify over sanctuary cities
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Mayor Brandon Johnson says he has not decided whether to testify before Congress over the city's sanctuary city policies.
Why it matters: If the mayor testifies, he will attempt to fend off federal pressure while supporting the city's immigration policy that has stood for 40 years.
The latest: The U.S. House has called mayors from four cities (Boston, Denver, New York City and Chicago) to testify as part of an investigation into whether the sanctuary city policies are impacting or disrupting the federal government's immigration policies.
- Chicago's ordinance prohibits city employees and law enforcement from assisting in enforcing federal immigration laws.
What they're saying: "We're not going to surrender our humanity," Johnson said at a Tuesday press conference.
Between the lines: The call to testify was an invitation, not a subpoena. The mayor's legal team is reviewing it.
Flashback: The city's ordinance predates Johnson. City Council passed the initial ordinance in 1985, under then-Mayor Harold Washington. It was updated in 2021 under then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot.
Yes, but: Johnson has embraced it and if he defends it under a national spotlight it could raise his profile in the resistance of the new Trump administration.
The other side: The political stunt could feature Republican House members grandstanding and making a case to the American people that the city's sanctuary city policy should be removed.
- Also, Johnson has faced scrutiny from Black alders for prioritizing immigration issues over the needs of their community.
Zoom out: According to Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, ICE has apprehended over 100 undocumented immigrants since raids began on Sunday.
- Snelling also said CPD does not interfere with ICE's missions.
The intrigue: While Congress prepares to hold these mayors' feet to the fire, right-wing media is suggesting Republicans go further, arresting both Johnson and Gov. JB Pritzker for obstruction.
- Border czar Tom Homan has suggested Denver Mayor Mike Johnston should be jailed if he stands in the federal government's way. Johnston has already said he won't testify in front of Congress.
What we're watching: Federal funding. The city says Trump's latest move to freeze federal funding and grants could have a massive impact on the city's bottom line.
What's next: It's unclear if the House will subpoena the mayor to testify on Feb. 11.