Former President Donald Trump's offer to assist struggling Democratic governors and mayors by deporting undocumented immigrants has been met with resistance from several prominent figures, including Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and California Governor Gavin Newsom. This refusal comes despite the significant financial strain these cities and states face in providing services for a large undocumented population.

Denver, for example, has reportedly spent $356 million on housing and feeding migrants, with projections indicating 8% of the city's 2025 budget will be allocated to supporting its 45,000 undocumented immigrants. This financial burden has led Mayor Johnston to propose budget cuts for essential services like police and fire departments. Despite these challenges, Johnston initially expressed strong opposition to Trump's deportation plans, even suggesting he would mobilize citizens to obstruct ICE efforts.

California, with an estimated two million undocumented immigrants, faces similar financial pressures, having spent $22.8 billion on related benefits and services in 2022. Despite a substantial budget deficit and declining approval ratings, Governor Newsom remains committed to resisting deportation efforts. He has called a special legislative session to reinforce the state's sanctuary status and protect its immigrant population.

Other Democratic leaders, including Governors Maura Healey of Massachusetts and Jay Pritzker of Illinois, along with Mayors Michelle Wu of Boston and Brandon Johnson of Chicago, have also voiced their opposition to Trump's immigration policies. These officials preside over areas experiencing population decline, rising crime rates, and increasing costs associated with housing and supporting undocumented immigrants. Their resistance to Trump's offer of assistance comes despite growing public support for stricter immigration enforcement, including among some Democrats.

Incoming ICE Director Tom Homan has emphasized the prioritization of deporting convicted criminal aliens with existing removal orders, a move that aligns with public sentiment. The reactions of Democratic officials raise questions about their responsiveness to the concerns of their constituents, many of whom favor stricter immigration control measures.

The financial and social challenges posed by large undocumented populations are evident in cities like San Francisco, where former Mayor London Breed faced declining approval ratings due to issues such as crime, homelessness, and high taxes. The experiences of these cities suggest that voters eventually prioritize practical solutions and common-sense approaches to complex problems. The question remains whether Democratic leaders will recognize this shift in public opinion and adapt their policies accordingly.