Summary
Several cities in California, including Santa Clara County and San Jose, are establishing areas where federal immigration authorities, specifically ICE, cannot conduct operations. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responded by stating they will continue to enforce immigration laws. This action takes place as local leaders aim to protect immigrant communities and ensure public spaces remain accessible to all residents.
Key Facts
- Santa Clara County and San Jose are working to create "No ICE" zones to restrict immigration enforcement on public property.
- The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors approved the plan to keep ICE from operating on county facilities.
- The City of San Jose is expected to adopt similar measures soon.
- These "No ICE" zones are inspired by similar policies in cities like Chicago.
- In June 2025, President Donald Trump sent federal troops to Los Angeles to support immigration enforcement, which led to legal challenges.
- A federal judge later ruled the military deployment violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits military involvement in domestic matters.
- Despite this ruling, a portion of the National Guard troops remain federally activated in California through February 2026.
- DHS officials argue they must continue enforcement to target serious criminals, regardless of local policies.
