Leaders in Huntington Beach, California, have made waves by voting unanimously to declare the city a “non-sanctuary” city, rejecting the state’s sanctuary laws and pledging cooperation with federal immigration authorities. The bold move, led by Mayor Pat Burns, positions Huntington Beach as a city prioritizing public safety and accountability over the state’s controversial immigration policies.
The resolution, titled “Non-Sanctuary City for Illegal Immigration for the Prevention of Crime,” directs local law enforcement to collaborate with federal immigration officials and notify them before releasing illegal immigrants from jail. “This is in the best interest of our community, Huntington Beach, to make sure that we utilize every facet of law enforcement we can to make it the best place to live,” said Burns, a former law enforcement officer, during Tuesday night’s meeting, which featured a bust of President Donald Trump on display.
In a press release, the city announced the resolution as a direct effort to counteract California’s sanctuary state laws, which it argues shield criminal illegal immigrants from deportation and undermine federal immigration enforcement. “This resolution deliberately sidesteps the Governor’s efforts to subvert the good work of federal immigration authorities,” the statement read, aligning the city’s stance with the Trump Administration and Border Czar Tom Homan’s efforts to secure the border.
The sanctuary city model, which prohibits local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration officials, has come under heavy criticism for allowing violent criminals to remain in the country. Councilman Chad Williams questioned the logic of these policies, stating, “If we want to voluntarily cooperate with federal authorities to protect our community, that is absolutely our prerogative. It’s just basic common sense. Why wouldn’t you want to use every tool available to keep your community safe?”
The resolution text highlighted crimes committed by illegal immigrants tied to criminal gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, whose violent activities have alarmed communities across the country. Huntington Beach leaders emphasized that their decision is about safeguarding law-abiding residents and ensuring local police are not restricted by state policies.
This vote also coincides with Huntington Beach’s ongoing legal challenge against California’s sanctuary state laws, which City Attorney Michael Gates has called unconstitutional. “The State should get out of the way of local law enforcement, stop handcuffing our police officers, and get back to the business of protecting innocent citizens,” Gates said. He criticized California’s lenient criminal policies and its recent proposal for a $25 million “Trump-proof” legal defense fund to shield illegal immigrants from deportation.
Huntington Beach’s stance is a clear rebuke to California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s progressive immigration agenda and underscores the growing resistance among local governments against sanctuary policies. For conservatives, the city’s actions reflect a commitment to restoring law and order, ensuring public safety, and standing against policies that prioritize politics over the well-being of citizens.
