Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced that states and cities which refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement will lose funding from the Department of Transportation.

The directive represents a policy shift by leveraging infrastructure dollars to compel compliance with immigration laws, particularly targeting jurisdictions commonly known as sanctuary cities.

Duffy said that his agency will not “fund rogue state actors who refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement,” also warning “cities that stand by while rioters destroy transportation infrastructure” should not expect any funds.

This enforcement mechanism aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader immigration agenda, which has expanded considerably since his return to office. Trump has directed ICE to implement what he describes as the “largest mass deportation program in history,” a sweeping initiative focused primarily on major urban centers like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York City.

The administration contends these metropolitan areas use illegal aliens to artificially inflate their voter rolls and welfare programs, thereby undermining jobs that would be held by citizens.

Yet the federal government’s hardline stance has triggered backlash from progressives, especially in Los Angeles where demonstrations have grown increasingly violent. In response to these riots, Trump deployed National Guard units alongside Marine personnel to maintain order.

Duffy’s comments reflect a comprehensive strategy to ensure compliance with Trump administration commitments. He had previously warned about withholding transportation funds from states issuing driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants or implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.