Homeland Security Secretary Critiques Federal Judges Amid Immigration Policy Challenges

<p>Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has differentiated between federal judges he claims the Trump administration can work with and those he finds challenging, particularly highlighting judges appointed by President Joe Biden. Mullin made these remarks during the RNC Midterm Convention on Thursday.</p><p>"We find judges, for the most part, honestly, that we can work with in almost every area. But you've got some of the judges that were appointed underneath Obama and definitely, if they're appointed by Biden, they are almost impossible to work with," Mullin stated.</p><p>His comments come as the Trump administration has faced multiple rulings from federal judges regarding its immigration policies, including recent decisions related to birthright citizenship and immigrant visa issuance. Mullin specifically mentioned judges appointed by Biden and, to a lesser extent, Obama, as particularly difficult for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to engage with.</p><p>In April, Biden-appointed Judge Brian Murphy blocked the Trump administration from terminating temporary protected status for over 5,000 Ethiopians. In September, Judge Deborah Boardman, also appointed by Biden, blocked the enforcement of Trump’s executive order limiting birthright citizenship, citing potential unconstitutionality.</p><p>Mullin argued that immigration cases should be straightforward, focusing on whether individuals entered the country legally and possess the necessary documentation. He likened the situation to homeownership, questioning whether individuals have the legal deed to their residence.</p><p>He also criticized state and local officials in blue states for restricting cooperation with ICE detainer requests, particularly in cases involving detainees identified as violent criminals, drug dealers, or known terrorists. "It makes absolutely zero sense," Mullin remarked.</p><p>Beyond the judiciary, DHS is contending with opposition from elected officials in blue cities and states. Mullin expressed concern about Virginia's approach to immigration enforcement, stating, "Virginia is out of control right now." He noted that the state had canceled its 287(g) programs, which allowed local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE.</p><p>Mullin claimed that 50% of recent deaths in Fairfax County were attributable to individuals who were in the country illegally. He stated, "I've said this multiple times, every death that happens at the hands of an illegal is 100% preventable." He questioned why Virginia's governor would not cooperate with DHS to enforce immigration laws.</p><p>Despite his criticisms, Mullin stated that the Trump administration would not compel blue cities to accept federal assistance, emphasizing that DHS would be available to help communities that seek it. "What we’re not gonna do is force our way in. You’re gonna have to decide that," he said.</p><p>In Danbury, Connecticut, the City Council has amended its police hiring ordinance to permit lawful permanent residents and DACA recipients to apply for police officer positions. Mullin expressed confusion over this decision, stating, "I don't understand how you can be in law enforcement and yet you have no legal status." He added, "They're prioritizing criminals over law-abiding citizens. We are a nation of laws, and either we respect them or we don't."</p>