Johnston bans federal immigration authorities from city property

What he's saying: Johnston repeatedly pledged the move would not make Denver a target for the federal government: "Our goal is not to provoke, but to protect," the mayor told the press. He denied a suggestion that the order was performative.

• The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to Axios Denver's request for comment.

State of play: Johnston signed an executive order Thursday banning agencies like U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement from accessing city-owned or city-controlled buildings.

• The move calls on Denver police to arrest federal agents using excessive force.

Reality check: The mayor told Axios Denver there are no recent examples of ICE operating in city-owned or city-controlled properties.

• Plus, the city works with federal immigration authorities only under very narrow circumstances, and Denver police don't assist in enforcement.

Between the lines: The order is a direct response to the public's fear over immigration enforcement, Johnston said, which has ramped up since the start of President Trump's second term.

• Johnston referenced the two fatal January shootings in Minnesota carried out by federal immigration authorities.

The intrigue: City Attorney Miko Brown called Johnston's order "measured and constitutional," adding that Denver can respect federal authority while balancing its own rules.

• She added that federal agents found in violation could face civil penalties or criminal charges.

What's next: On Monday, Denver City Council will vote on a proposal targeting federal immigration agents that would ban law enforcement from wearing face masks.