ICE Raids Coming to 5 Blue States—Newsom Isn’t Happy
So here’s the thing—apparently ICE is gearing up for major raids in five Democratic states, and California’s Governor Gavin Newsom is pissed. Like, full-on “this is an abuse of power” pissed. And honestly? It’s about to get messy. With the 2024 elections around the corner, this whole situation feels like political dynamite. Let’s break it down.
Where and When?
Okay, so the leaks say ICE is targeting California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Washington. All blue states, all with sanctuary policies that basically tell ICE, “Hey, back off.” California especially—they’ve been fighting this battle for years. And now? Feels like payback.
Timing-wise, late summer. Which, let’s be real—that’s not an accident. Right before election season kicks into high gear. Thousands could get swept up, including folks who’ve been here forever over tiny old offenses. It’s brutal.
Newsom’s Going Nuclear
Man did not hold back. His exact words? “This brazen abuse of power by a sitting President is lighting a match near gasoline.” And he’s not just talking—California’s ready to throw every legal roadblock possible in ICE’s way. Even the National Guard might get involved. Yeah, it’s that serious.
Other blue-state governors are watching. New York’s Kathy Hochul’s team is already on the phone with Newsom’s people. Meanwhile, Democrats in Congress are scrambling to cut funding for these raids. But here’s the kicker—some local cops might actually help ICE, even if it breaks state laws. Talk about drama.
Why This Feels Familiar (And Why It’s Different)
Remember the Trump years? ICE raids, sanctuary cities pushing back—same fight. But now? The scale’s bigger, and the stakes are higher. Blue states have passed over a hundred laws since 2017 to block ICE. This’ll test if those laws actually work.
And the 2024 angle? Both sides see this as a win. Democrats get to say, “See? GOP’s going full extremist.” Republicans fire back with, “Sanctuary cities are lawless.” Meanwhile, immigrant families are stuck in the middle, just trying to survive.
What People Are Saying
On the ground, groups are hustling—”know your rights” workshops, emergency hotlines, the works. “We won’t be terrorized,” says María González from the National Immigrant Justice Center. But some sheriffs? They’re low-key siding with ICE. Which, surprise, could mean lawsuits.
Experts are split. Harvard’s Cristina Rodríguez thinks this’ll backfire—”When enforcement feels random, people stop trusting the system.” But conservative commentator Mark Krikorian shoots back: “States don’t get to ignore federal laws.” Classic standoff.
What’s Next?
Courts will probably try to block the raids. But if they happen? Expect protests, maybe even standoffs. And sooner or later, the Supreme Court might have to answer the big question: Can states really tell ICE to take a hike?
Want to stay updated? Follow NPR’s immigration coverage or check the ACLU. If you’re worried, hit up your state AG’s office or groups like RAICES.
Bottom line? This isn’t just about immigration. It’s a raw power struggle—who gets to call the shots in our cities? Newsom’s drawing a line in the sand. And no matter how this ends, the fallout’s gonna stick around long after the headlines fade.
Source: NY Post – US News
