Governor Newsom's Office Responds to Federal Government's Threats on Sanctuary Policies

Strategic Insights -

Governor Gavin Newsom's office has issued a response to the federal government's threats regarding California's laws related to law enforcement cooperation with immigration enforcement. The state's laws, which prioritize public safety and cooperate with federal authorities on specific crimes, have been reaffirmed by the courts multiple times. Despite this, the federal government continues to pressure states into accepting their authoritarian tactics, threatening prosecutions and exploiting vulnerabilities. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has coordinated with ICE on over 11,300 cases since 2019, and state law helps ensure that all Californians feel safe reporting crimes to the police.

Key Takeaways:

  • Governor Newsom's office has responded to the federal government's threats regarding California's laws on sanctuary policies, reaffirming the state's commitment to protect Californians.
  • The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has coordinated with ICE on over 11,300 cases since 2019, prioritizing public safety and cooperation with federal authorities.
  • State law helps ensure that all Californians feel safe reporting crimes to the police, including victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.
  • The federal government's actions, including military deployment and immigration raids, are costing taxpayers millions and harming California's economy.
  • The loss of immigrant workers, including undocumented individuals and those losing lawful status, would hinder projects, reduce food supply, and increase costs.
  • Undocumented immigrants contributed $8.5 billion in state and local taxes in 2022, a figure that would rise to $10.3 billion if they could work lawfully.

Statistics:

  • Over 11,300 cases have been coordinated between the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and ICE since 2019.
  • Private sector work attendance is down 3.1% due to Trump's actions, comparable to COVID-19 lockdown levels.
  • Mass arrests, detentions, and deportations in California could cost the state's economy $275 billion.
  • The loss of immigrant workers would eliminate $23 billion in annual tax revenue.
  • Undocumented immigrants contributed $8.5 billion in state and local taxes in 2022.
  • The projected annual tax revenue from undocumented immigrants if they could work lawfully is $10.3 billion.

Sources:

  • Governor Gavin Newsom's office
  • California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
  • Ninth Circuit Court
  • United States v. California
  • California State Bar
  • Governor's Office press release, August 19, 2025
  • UCLA Anderson forecast
  • Federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request
  • Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/08/19/governor-newsoms-office-reminds-bondi-of-ethical-obligations-for-u-s-department-of-justice-lawyers/