July 22, 2015
Nearly two dozen mayors representing some of the largest U.S. cities are pressing Congress to resist efforts to rein in sanctuary cities, which are under fire since the alleged killing of a young San Francisco woman by an undocumented felon earlier this month.
In a letter to the bipartisan leaders of both chambers, the mayors argue that, while the death of Kathryn Steinle was tragic, local officials are better poised than Congress to dictate their public safety policies.
"Our cities and counties are home to millions of immigrant residents who live, work, and contribute to the vitality of our communities," the letter reads. "As local leaders, we are uniquely positioned to make the best decisions about serving our residents and ensuring public safety."
Spearheaded by Cities United for Immigration Action, a group of advocate lawmakers, the letter was signed by 20 mayors from around the country, including Bill de Blasio (New York City), Rahm Emanuel (Chicago), Michael Nutter (Philadelphia), Muriel Bowser (Washington, D.C.), Ed Murray (Seattle) and William Peduto (Pittsburgh).
The campaign arrives a day before House Republicans are expected to pass legislation to withhold certain federal grants from states, cities and law enforcement agencies that refuse to cooperate with federal officials in the detention or transfer of undocumented criminals.