Former acting ICE Director Tom Homan, appointed by Donald Trump as his border czar, has a strong message for sanctuary cities resisting the incoming administration's stricter border policies: cooperate or step aside. In a recent appearance on "Sunday Morning Futures," Homan outlined the administration's plan to reduce migrant crime and enhance community safety nationwide, regardless of opposition from some cities.

Homan emphasized the importance of collaboration with local law enforcement, stating that allowing ICE access to jails allows for the safe and efficient apprehension of dangerous individuals. He argued that releasing these individuals into communities not only endangers the public and ICE officers but also necessitates larger-scale operations within those communities, leading to the arrest of other undocumented individuals, even those not considered high-priority. Homan stressed that cooperation with ICE is the safest approach for everyone involved.

A vocal critic of the Biden administration's border policies, Homan plans to strengthen border security and implement widespread deportations, echoing Trump's stance. While some city officials resist these plans, with Boston's city council voting to obstruct mass deportations and officials like Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, and Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs expressing opposition, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has shown a willingness to collaborate. Homan and Adams are scheduled to meet to discuss strategies for improving safety in New York City. Homan expressed his confidence that other officials will eventually prioritize public safety and cooperate, but affirmed that the administration will proceed with its plans regardless.

Homan's appointment and planned policies mark a return to a more stringent approach to border security and immigration enforcement, potentially leading to increased tensions between the federal government and sanctuary cities.