TL;DR
Homeland Security Secretary Mullin announced plans to eliminate customs screening at international airports in Democratic-led sanctuary cities. The move faces strong opposition from industry groups, local officials, and some members of Congress. The plan is still in development and has not been approved by the White House.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has announced a plan to remove customs screening from international airports serving Democratic-led sanctuary cities, a move that has generated widespread backlash from industry groups, local officials, and members of Congress.
Mullin stated that the plan is part of a broader effort to enforce federal immigration laws more strictly in sanctuary cities, which he claims impede immigration enforcement. The DHS confirmed that the agency is currently drafting plans to implement these removals, although the White House has not approved the initiative.
The move follows Mullin’s threats to withdraw Customs and Border Protection officers from Newark International Airport after protests at the nearby Delaney Hall ICE detention center. The plan would extend to other airports in sanctuary cities, which are designated by the Department of Justice for policies that allegedly obstruct federal immigration enforcement.
Industry groups, including the U.S. Travel Association and IATA, have condemned the proposal, warning it could cause significant disruptions to international travel and economic losses estimated at billions of dollars. Some local officials, like New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, have publicly opposed the plan, citing concerns about economic and security impacts.
Impact on International Travel and Economy
The plan, if implemented, could severely disrupt international travel, damage U.S. reputation abroad, and result in substantial economic losses, especially in cities that rely heavily on tourism and international visitors. It also raises questions about federal authority versus local policies and the potential for political conflicts to influence airport operations.
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Background on Sanctuary Cities and DHS Enforcement
In April 2025, President Trump signed an executive order requiring the Department of Justice to identify jurisdictions that allegedly obstruct federal immigration enforcement. The DOJ designated 18 sanctuary cities, including New York, Chicago, and Newark, based on their policies and actions perceived as hindering immigration laws. Mullin’s plan appears to be a response to ongoing protests and local resistance at ICE detention facilities, particularly Delaney Hall in New Jersey.
This development follows previous tensions between federal immigration authorities and local jurisdictions, with Mullin emphasizing enforcement and local cooperation as key issues driving the proposed airport measures.
“The agency is currently drawing up plans for these sanctuary cities where local authorities aren’t allowing us to do our job and enforce federal laws.”
— a DHS spokesperson
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Unconfirmed Aspects of DHS’s Airport Removal Plan
It remains unclear how exactly DHS intends to implement the plan, whether it will be approved by the White House, and what legal or logistical challenges may arise. The timeline for any actions is also not yet specified, and the scope of the plan beyond Newark and other sanctuary cities is uncertain.
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Next Steps for DHS and Congressional Response
The DHS is expected to finalize its plans in the coming weeks, with possible hearings or statements from the White House. Congressional leaders from both parties are likely to scrutinize the proposal, and industry groups are preparing for potential disruptions. The White House’s position remains undecided, and further negotiations or legal challenges may follow.
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Key Questions
What cities are targeted by the DHS plan?
The plan reportedly targets several sanctuary cities designated by the DOJ, including Newark, New York City, Chicago, and others, though specific details are still emerging.
Could this plan actually be implemented?
It is uncertain. The DHS is still drafting the plan, and it has not received White House approval. Legal, logistical, and political hurdles remain significant.
What are the economic implications?
Industry estimates suggest removing customs officers could cost billions in lost revenue and tourism, especially in major international travel hubs.
How might this affect travelers?
Potential disruptions could lead to delays, cancellations, and reduced international flights at affected airports.
Source: Google Trends
