A California federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by Donald Trump's administration against Los Angeles over its sanctuary city ordinance, dealing a legal blow to White House efforts to compel local cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
Judge Rejects Unconstitutionality Claim
Fernando Olguin, a judge in the Central California US District Court, rejected the administration's argument that the city's policy was unconstitutional. He granted the administration permission to file an amended complaint. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The ruling upholds Los Angeles' authority to limit how its resources are used in federal immigration enforcement, a policy that has been a flashpoint in the broader national debate over immigration.
City Attorney Celebrates Victory
Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto welcomed the decision, stating: "This order reinforces the well-established principle that local governments have the authority to decide how to use their personnel and resources. The goal of this ordinance … is to encourage victims of and witnesses to crime to feel safe coming forward to seek help from LAPD regardless of their immigration status. It does not obstruct or impede lawful federal immigration enforcement operations."
The ordinance, adopted by the city council, restricts police and city employees from cooperating with federal immigration agents except under limited circumstances, aiming to build trust with immigrant communities.
Sanctuary Policies Under Fire
The Trump administration has targeted so-called sanctuary jurisdictions across the country, arguing they undermine federal law and public safety. However, courts have consistently upheld the right of states and cities to decline participation in immigration enforcement, citing the Tenth Amendment and principles of federalism.
Los Angeles, home to a large immigrant population, has been a vocal opponent of Trump's hardline immigration policies, including mass deportations and travel bans.
This latest ruling adds to a string of judicial setbacks for the administration on immigration matters, including challenges to the travel ban and family separation policy.
