Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has made a striking proclamation.
According to the New York Post, in an audacious move, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston vows to deploy local law enforcement and mobilize 50,000 citizens to thwart President-elect Donald Trump's mass deportation efforts at the city's limits.
A Fierce Standoff at Denver's Border
The mayor is taking a firm stand against the incoming administration's aggressive stance on sanctuary cities. Denver, recognized as a sanctuary city, is prepared to oppose the massive deportations of illegal migrants, despite potential repercussions such as lawsuits and withholding of federal funding announced by Trump.
Denver's situation is exacerbated by a significant migrant influx, with approximately 40,000 individuals from Colombia and Venezuela arriving since December 2022.
This demographic shift has not come without issues, notably a rise in criminal activities connected to the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang.
"More than us having [federal agents] stationed at the county line to keep them out, you would have 50,000 Denverites there,” stated Mayor Johnston, showcasing his commitment to protecting the immigrant community.
Controversial Commentary and Criticisms
"It’s like the Tiananmen Square moment … right?” remarked Mayor Mike Johnston, drawing a parallel that has sparked criticism for potentially misappropriating a profound historical event. Critics, including Xi Van Fleet, a survivor of Mao's revolution, argue that such comparisons are either due to ignorance or a calculated misuse of history.
Aurora City Councilwoman Danielle Jurinsky openly critiqued Mayor Johnston’s strategy, highlighting a divergent approach in Aurora. While Aurora will not impede federal operations, it does not support blocking federal agents either.
"You’d have every one of those Highland moms who came out for the migrants. And you do not want to mess with them," added Mayor Johnston, emphasizing the wide-ranging support for his plan.
Voices of Opposition and Support
Elon Musk, recently named as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency by Trump, took a harsh stance against the mayor's approach. Via X, Musk accused Mayor Johnston of prioritizing migrants over his constituents.
The mayor remains resolute, however, asserting the city's values will not be compromised. “The short answer is, we won’t change that because those are one of our core values. And we’re not going to sell out those values to anyone. We’re not going to be bullied into changing them,” he declared, encapsulating his stance as one of defiance against federal pressures.
"I think we are gonna continue to be a welcoming, open, big-hearted city that’s gonna stand by our values," continued Mayor Johnston, reaffirming his dedication to Denver's sanctuary status.
Mayor Johnston's unwavering stance demonstrates the complexities facing local leadership when federal and local values collide. His commitment to city residents and migrants alike sets the stage for a potential confrontation that could draw national attention.
The pledge to block deportation efforts with a human shield of thousands signals a turbulent period ahead for Denver, as they navigate the legal and social ramifications of opposing federal immigration efforts.
