Illegal Immigration Crackdown Intensifies Under Trump-Era Leadership
A bold new push by Republican lawmakers could soon pull the plug on federal housing subsidies for sanctuary cities that defy immigration law — a direct challenge to left-leaning strongholds like Los Angeles.
Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) introduced the bill as part of a broader effort to support President Trump’s America First immigration agenda. The bill would cut off federal housing grants to any city that shelters illegal immigrants or refuses to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“Taxpayer dollars should never be used to reward lawlessness,” said Hagerty. “Sanctuary cities put illegal immigrants ahead of American citizens. That ends now.”
What’s at Stake: Over $3 Billion in Federal Housing Grants
The measure specifically targets the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This long-standing program funnels over $3 billion in federal funding annually to cities for affordable housing and urban development.
Under the proposed law, cities that:
- Block DHS requests
- Refuse to share immigration status info
- Pass ordinances shielding illegal aliens
…would become ineligible for these federal housing grants.
Rep. Ralph Norman: “No Obedience to Federal Law? No Federal Cash.”
Congressman Ralph Norman (R-SC), who is co-sponsoring the House version of the bill, made it clear: “It’s simple. If you ignore federal immigration law, you forfeit your right to federal tax dollars. This bill defends the rule of law and protects American families.”
He added, “Sanctuary cities are putting politics over public safety, and that’s unacceptable. American citizens should not be forced to subsidize illegal immigration.”
Los Angeles in the Crosshairs as Protests Erupt Over ICE Raids
The move comes amid growing unrest in Los Angeles, where street protests and clashes over ICE enforcement actions have raised concerns about public safety and law enforcement’s ability to maintain order.
Critics say sanctuary policies encourage illegal immigration, undermine national security, and disrespect American sovereignty — all while draining public resources funded by law-abiding taxpayers.
Trump’s Budget Already Targeted These Housing Grants
The Trump White House had already placed the CDBG program on the chopping block. In his latest budget proposal, President Trump called for completely eliminating the grants, arguing that such programs are better managed by states — not bloated federal agencies.
The proposed budget slashes over $5 billion in community development spending, reinforcing the administration’s priorities: secure borders, local control, and responsible use of taxpayer money.
The Bottom Line: No More Federal Rewards for Lawbreaking Cities
This legislation sends a clear message: Cities that protect illegal immigrants at the expense of public safety will no longer receive a dime of federal housing money.
Republicans are drawing a sharp line in the sand — either enforce immigration laws or forfeit funding.
As President Trump ramps up his crackdown on sanctuary cities, expect more action aimed at defending American values, protecting communities, and putting an end to taxpayer-funded lawlessness.
