Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has warned that authorities could stop processing international travelers and cargo at major airports in sanctuary cities that have declined to cooperate with the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, according to sources from HuffPost and Reuters. The potential move would affect airports in cities such as Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, Seattle, and San Francisco.
Key Takeaways
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned that authorities could halt processing of international travelers and cargo at major airports in sanctuary cities, according to multiple sources. The move would impact cities like Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, Seattle, and San Francisco.
- DHS Secretary Mullin privately warned travel executives about potential halts to airport processing
- Impacted cities include Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, Seattle, and San Francisco
- The move is expected after the FIFA World Cup in July
- Airlines for America warns of significant operational disruptions
The warning was reportedly made during a private meeting with travel executives last week. Mullin had previously made the threat publicly in April during a Department of Homeland Security funding dispute. According to The Atlantic, cited by both HuffPost and Reuters, the move would likely occur after the FIFA World Cup in the United States in July.
Airlines for America, which represents major passenger and cargo airlines, expressed concern that reducing customs staffing at these airports could have a devastating effect on the airline and tourism industries. U.S. Travel, representing major airlines, hotel chains, rental car firms, and others, urged governments to adopt policies promoting the free flow of legitimate travelers.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated during a House hearing that he was not familiar with Mullin’s remarks and did not express support for the potential move. 'We shouldn’t shut down air travel in a state that doesn’t agree with our politics,' Duffy said, as reported by both HuffPost and Reuters.
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