Title: Noem Criticizes Illinois’ Sanctuary Policies During Springfield Visit
Springfield, IL — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Springfield on Wednesday, directly attacking Illinois’ Democratic leadership over the state’s sanctuary policies that protect undocumented immigrants. Standing alongside families affected by crimes committed by undocumented individuals, Noem called on Governor JB Pritzker to abandon what she labeled "dangerous sanctuary policies."
Governor Pritzker’s office responded by asserting that Noem’s team had not communicated or sought support for immigration law enforcement. Pritzker criticized the Trump administration’s approach to immigration as unconstitutional, claiming it undermines the due process rights of individuals, including U.S. citizen children. His office defended the Illinois Trust Act, a bipartisan law restricting local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE in civil immigration matters.
Noem’s remarks came as she highlighted incidents involving undocumented immigrants, specifically mentioning the murder of Emma Shafer, allegedly by a man whose legal status had expired. As Noem spoke, groups protesting her visit, including Shafer’s family, highlighted disagreements over her messaging.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias criticized Noem for using fear tactics regarding immigration policies and the upcoming Real ID deadline. He labeled her traveling campaign as ineffective and harmful, particularly implying it sowed unnecessary panic among the public.
Noem emphasized the financial impact of extending health care access to undocumented immigrants, citing a $1.6 billion cost to taxpayers under Pritzker’s administration. Her assertions about federal immigration laws being violated were disputed by experts, underscoring an ongoing legal battle over the Illinois Trust Act.
Pritzker concluded by calling Noem’s visit a publicity stunt and championed the need for humane immigration reform, encouraging collaboration rather than division. Illinoisans, he stated, would continue to resist what they view as political maneuvers against their values.
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