Sharon, Massachusetts, U.S.A. – President Donald Trump’s “border czar” Tom Homan has made a name for himself advocating some of the most hardline immigration policies.
A close ally of Trump, his approach to immigration has always been about brute force rather than compassion.
Now, he’s decided to target Boston.
Some of his outrageous claims include accusing Massachusetts authorities of releasing sex offenders by refusing detainer requests from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which allow police to hold individuals for up to 48 hours.
During his speech at CPAC on Saturday, Homan went after Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox for standing by the city’s policies that protect immigrants.
He was furious that Cox wouldn’t work with ICE.
“I read a story last night: the police commissioner of Boston, you said you’d double down on not helping the law enforcement office of ICE,” Homan said. “I’m coming to Boston and I’m bringing hell with me.”
Homan hasn’t just gone after Cox. He’s also taken aim at Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. She has consistently stood up for immigrant communities, from expanding legal aid for migrants to defending the city’s Trust Act, which limits cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE.
Massachusetts has always stood up to oppression, from the American Revolution to today. People here have fought for their rights and refused to be pushed around, and that hasn’t changed.
Shiara Naveen is a Reporter with Youth Journalism International.
