Tucson’s Mayor Vows to Shield Undocumented Immigrants from Trump Border Czar’s Agenda

By Daniel Stefanski |

The political landscape in Arizona is heating up as Tucson Mayor Regina Romero vocally opposes President-elect Donald J. Trump’s impending border security measures. In a statement released last month, she expressed deep concern over the plans for mass deportation set to begin after Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, calling them “cruel and immoral.” Romero emphasized her commitment to community safety and her collaboration with local law enforcement to protect Tucson residents. She stressed, “Here in Tucson, we know how to stand up and fight against hate and racist laws.”

Romero conveyed her fears about the potential impact of Trump’s policies on families and children within the immigrant community. She drew parallels to Arizona’s historical struggles with discrimination, referencing Proposition 314 and its ties to the controversial SB 1070, popularly known as the “show me your papers” law. “We are a compassionate city that knows we are stronger together,” she stated, reaffirming her dedication to fighting against what she described as hate-filled propositions.

Trump’s incoming Border Czar, Tom Homan, responded sharply to Romero’s remarks during an appearance on Fox News. He highlighted the urgent crises at the border, claiming that lives are endangered daily. Homan argued, “So what’s cruel about securing that border and saving lives?” He also warned sanctuary city leaders like Romero to reconsider their positions, asserting that their resistance could impede federal efforts to enforce immigration laws.

Governor Katie Hobbs also joined the fray, issuing a statement that seemed to challenge Trump’s border policies. “Securing our border is not a red issue or a blue issue. It’s an Arizona issue and an American issue,” Hobbs noted, indicating her willingness to collaborate across party lines while standing firm against policies that could adversely affect Arizonans.

Throughout her administration, Hobbs has consistently resisted Republican initiatives aimed at tightening border security and managing illegal immigration. This opposition has spurred state legislative Republicans to push Proposition 314, intended to provide local law enforcement with enhanced resources for addressing illegal immigration. Looking ahead, Arizona Republicans are poised to align with the Trump Administration’s agenda as they seek to mitigate illegal immigration challenges in the state.

In a recent development, the Trump Administration secured a legal victory from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, which upheld a district court ruling favoring federal immigration enforcement against local constraints. This decision could set a significant precedent for 2025, particularly regarding potential attempts by local officials like Romero to impede federal deportation efforts.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.