Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey clarifies her stance on sanctuary cities, emphasizing that despite eight cities, including Boston and Cambridge, declaring sanctuary status, the state itself is not a sanctuary state. Sanctuary policies aim to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, primarily to protect undocumented immigrants from detention and deportation.
In a recent interview with WBZ-TV, Healey stated that the number of migrant families entering Massachusetts has decreased. She attributed this decline to her clear message that the state does not offer housing to undocumented immigrants and is not a sanctuary state. This statement contrasts with her actions in August 2023, when she declared a state of emergency due to the influx of migrants and called upon the Biden administration for funding and work release programs to address the state’s overwhelmed shelter capacity.
Immigration was a key concern for voters in the November election, with President-elect Donald Trump promising widespread deportations. Initially, following Trump’s re-election, Healey stated that state and local law enforcement would refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. However, she has since modified her position, stating that violent criminals should be deported if they are in the country illegally.
Healey expressed hope that the incoming Trump administration and Congress will enact immigration reform, emphasizing the federal nature of the issue and urging President Trump to address border security. However, her plan for collaboration with the Trump administration on migrant issues remains unclear. This uncertainty contrasts with Trump and his incoming border czar, Tom Homan, who have prioritized the deportation of violent migrant criminals.