WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans pushed toward a vote Thursday on legislation cracking down on so-called “sanctuary cities” that shield residents from federal immigration authorities. Angry Democrats accused Republicans of aligning themselves with Donald Trump and his anti-immigrant views, and the White House threatened a veto.
“The Donald Trump wing of the Republican Party is clearly ascendant here today,” Rep. Lloyd Doggett, R-Texas, said in floor debate ahead of a vote. “This bill is not about grabbing criminals, it’s about grabbing headlines.”
Republicans countered that action was needed in the wake of the July 1 shooting of Kathryn Steinle, allegedly by an immigrant in the country illegally despite a long criminal record and multiple prior deportations.