The Trump Justice Department is suing four Democratic-run sanctuary states over policies that are blocking federal law enforcement from obtaining undercover license plates used in immigration and criminal investigations.
The lawsuits target Washington, Oregon, Maine, and Massachusetts specifically. DOJ officials are holding these states accountable for discriminating against federal agencies, undermining immigration enforcement, and putting officers in danger.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said law enforcement officers risk their lives every day and must be able to do their jobs safely. He accused the governors of pursuing obstructionist policies by denying undercover plates to DHS agencies such as ICE, while still allowing state agencies to use them.
The rules vary by state. Washington and Oregon have moved to block DHS agencies, including ICE, HSI, and Customs and Border Protection, from getting undercover plates. Oregon’s policy is broader, reaching other federal agencies as well. Massachusetts allows Homeland Security Investigations but not ICE to obtain plates.
Maine requires federal agencies to certify that vehicles will not be used for civil immigration enforcement. The DOJ argues these policies violate the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution, which gives federal law priority over conflicting state rules. Officials also warn that identifiable vehicles could expose officers to tracking, doxing, harassment, or attacks. This is exactly why sanctuary policies are dangerous.
These states are not just refusing to help enforce immigration law — they are actively making it harder and riskier for federal officers to protect the public. The Trump administration is right to fight back. Democrats should never be allowed to endanger law enforcement to protect illegal immigrants who they hope to make into their voting bloc to ensure perpetual socialist rule over America.
