Trump admin may halt airport processing at 'sanctuary cities,' Mullin says

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced the Trump administration is exploring plans to stop processing international travelers and cargo at major airports in 'sanctuary cities' that resist federal immigration enforcement. The potential action, discussed in a Tuesday interview with Fox News, targets cities such as Boston, Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, Seattle, and San Francisco, all listed by the Justice Department as non-compliant. Mullin emphasized no final decision has been made but stated plans are being developed, warning that 'local radical left Democrats' are hindering federal law enforcement. The threat follows earlier private warnings to travel executives, including a Reuters report last week confirming the administration’s consideration of withdrawing Customs and Border Protection officers from these airports. The move risks severe disruptions, particularly as over 50 million international travelers passed through New York airports alone last year. Airlines for America and the U.S. Travel Association have warned of operational chaos, cargo delays, and economic harm to industries reliant on global tourism and trade. Democrats argue reforms are needed to address abuses by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and CBP, citing the January killings of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis. The U.S. Travel Association confirmed meetings with Mullin, noting the administration’s intent to withdraw CBP officers from affected airports. The timing of the proposal coincides with preparations for the FIFA World Cup, raising concerns about travel restrictions during a peak season for international arrivals. Mullin first raised the idea in April during funding disputes but has since reiterated its active consideration.