Washington, Jan 27 (NationPress) The White House has intensified its critique of what are referred to as sanctuary policies, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt asserting that President Donald Trump is insisting on enhanced collaboration from both state and local governments to uphold federal immigration regulations.

During a press briefing at the White House, Leavitt indicated that the administration perceives resistance to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by state and local authorities as a direct danger to public safety. She accused Democratic officials in Minnesota of “actively defying federal immigration law” and hampering federal agents from executing their responsibilities.

Leavitt mentioned that President Trump had a conversation with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz earlier in the day, outlining what she characterized as “three straightforward and commonsense points of collaboration” between ICE and local law enforcement. These points included handing over illegal immigrants detained by local police, transferring those with criminal histories to federal custody, and permitting federal agents to operate without interference.

She stated the administration believes such collaboration is standard in most states and cautioned that non-compliance has “tragically cost lives” in Minnesota. According to Leavitt, the president is urging Congress to “swiftly enact legislation ending sanctuary cities once and for all.”

The press secretary emphasized that while Americans have a constitutional right to protest, they do not possess “a constitutional right to hinder and obstruct lawful immigration enforcement operations.” She noted that such conduct is criminal and endangers federal agents.

Leavitt also defended the administration’s broader immigration policy, asserting that President Trump remains dedicated to deporting “the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens.” She mentioned that ICE has apprehended “many — multiple violent offenders” in recent days, including individuals convicted of assault, domestic violence, fraud, and driving under the influence.

In response to inquiries regarding civil liberties, Leavitt affirmed the president's strong support for the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens, but cautioned that carrying firearms while confronting law enforcement raises the risk of fatal outcomes.

The topic of immigration enforcement continues to be politically contentious in the United States, particularly as states and municipalities led by Democrats persist in challenging federal authority. The Trump administration has positioned collaboration with ICE as a fundamental aspect of its domestic security strategy.