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Exclusive Insights with Phoenix Councilwoman Betty Guardado: Tackling Immigration, DOJ Issues, and Budget Cuts
Recent executive orders from the Trump administration pose significant implications for Phoenix, particularly concerning immigration policies and potential funding reductions. Council members are grappling with the ramifications of directives aimed at deporting unauthorized migrants entering the U.S.
Phoenix Councilwoman Betty Guardado emphasized the city’s existing immigration policies. “We’ve established protocols that we intend to follow,” Guardado stated. Under current policies, police cannot inquire about a person’s immigration status during routine interactions, such as traffic stops, unless certain conditions are met.
The city regulates communication with ICE, permitting contact only if a person is under arrest or if there’s reasonable suspicion they are in the U.S. illegally. Guardado noted the ongoing staffing shortages within the police force, stating, “Our officers are already stretched thin. Tasking them with additional responsibilities will be incredibly challenging.”
Moreover, the administration has announced intentions to curtail diversity and equity initiatives. When questioned about this shift, Guardado remarked, “We have existing policies to foster inclusivity, but as a city, this conversation hasn’t fully taken place yet.”
In addition, the Trump administration is reportedly pausing civil rights investigations under the Department of Justice. This freeze impacts ongoing inquiries, including one against the Phoenix Police Department, which previously faced allegations of civil rights violations.
Significantly, the U.S. Supreme Court has recently authorized cities in the West, including Phoenix, to enforce bans on public camping. The 12News I-Team is currently pursuing data on the enforcement of these bans, although responses have yet to be received. Guardado suspects that enforcement actions are minimal due to existing budget constraints and staffing shortages.
“We face challenges not just in policing but also in providing resources for the unhoused,” she added, expressing frustration over the city’s inability to adequately address encampments. “It’s disheartening for our community, and I apologize to constituents for not meeting expectations.”
The Phoenix City Council’s primary focus is on the budget, which has already been adversely affected by a new state law eliminating the residential rental tax, crucial for revenue. Uncertainties regarding federal funding further complicate financial discussions.
