Bhalla Defies Federal Order On Sanctuary City Laws

India-West News Desk

HOBOKEN, NJ — Mayor Ravi Bhalla has made it clear that Hoboken will not reverse its 2018 laws protecting immigrants, despite pressure from federal officials. In a letter to U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, Bhalla emphasized that the city will uphold its policies, which are part of a broader movement seen in at least 18 U.S. cities over the past decade under so-called “Sanctuary Jurisdiction” or “Fair and Welcoming City” rules.

Earlier this month, Bondi released a list of states, counties, and cities with such laws, warning that they must cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Bondi’s office set an August 19 deadline for Hoboken’s response.

IBhalla pushed back, saying Bondi’s direct communication was inappropriate, as Hoboken — along with several other cities — is currently involved in litigation with the federal government. Bhalla called the threat of criminal charges against local officials “illegal” and referred the matter to both the Florida Bar and New Jersey’s Office of Attorney Ethics.

“We will not capitulate to your demand that we rescind our policies and in this case our morals and values,” Bhalla wrote. “Similar to the rest of America, Hoboken is a city of immigrants.” He added that, in light of recent developments, the city may even consider revising its laws to further strengthen protections.

The stance aligns with some other mayors, including Boston’s Michelle Wu, who recently indicated she will not comply with all federal demands regarding sanctuary policies.

On the political front, Bhalla recently secured a victory in the Democratic primary for New Jersey’s 32nd State Assembly district, narrowly defeating freshman Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez by 179 votes.

This marks his third legislative bid; he previously ran in 2011 and 2013, the latter time withdrawing to seek re-election to the Hoboken City Council.