Congressman Clyde opposes sanctuary city amendment citing rule of law

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

During a recent meeting of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations, a heated debate unfolded over the Fiscal Year 2026 Homeland Security Bill, particularly concerning the treatment of sanctuary cities and places of worship. Representative Andrew Clyde from Georgia voiced strong opposition to any amendments that would allow for sanctuary designations, arguing that no location should be exempt from the rule of law. "When you start making sanctuary places... we have problems," he stated, emphasizing the need for strict enforcement of removal orders for undocumented individuals.

The discussion intensified as Representative Adriano Espaillat from New York introduced an amendment aimed at protecting houses of worship from enforcement actions, citing their status as sensitive locations. He highlighted the widespread support among various religious communities for keeping these spaces free from law enforcement activities, especially in situations involving imminent risk of violence or terrorism. "When people go to pray to their god, they really should be left alone," Espaillat asserted.

Despite the compelling arguments presented, the committee ultimately voted against Espaillat's amendment, with the chair declaring that the "no's have it." The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between immigration enforcement and the protection of sensitive locations, a topic that continues to resonate deeply within communities across the nation. As the committee moves forward, the implications of these discussions will likely shape future policies regarding homeland security and community safety.

Converted from Full Committee Markup of Fiscal Year 2026 Homeland Security Bill meeting on June 24, 2025
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