OLYMPIA, Wash. — Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson says he is ready to go toe-to-toe with the Trump administration over the state’s immigration policies.
“Let me be very clear, Washington state will not be bullied by threats and legally baseless accusations,” Gov. Ferguson said in a press conference Tuesday afternoon.
Last week, Attorney General Pam Bondi sent a letter to the Governor stating Washington’s sanctuary state policies do not comply with the president’s executive order on immigration enforcement.
Right now the Keep Washington Working Act, passed in 2019, limits local law enforcement’s involvement in federal immigration cases. Bondi’s letter says that the state could face serious consequences if it does not change its policies by next year. It is unclear if the Trump administration plans on suing Ferguson or if it plans on withholding federal funding.
“Her letter threatens me, police officers, state troopers, judges, and other officials with prison time,” Ferguson said. “That is breathtaking. A letter like this cannot be normalized.”
“Washington state is proud to be a welcoming community that values immigrants and refugees contributions to our economy and our cultural fabric.”
WAGOP Chairman and State Representative Jim Walsh responded with a statement, arguing Ferguson should comply with the AG’s request.
“Bob Ferguson puts essential functions of state government at risk in order to perpetuate a foolish political fight with the federal government.”
The governor says his staff will be prepared for any or all actions taken by the federal government.
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