Trump Administration Considers Closing Customs at Major US Airports

Markwayne Mullin, the recently appointed Homeland Security Secretary under President Trump, has suggested the withdrawal of customs officers from airports in Democrat-run “sanctuary cities” that protect undocumented migrants. This proposal could potentially impact international travelers at some of the busiest airports in the US, including JFK in New York, Los Angeles International Airport, and Denver International Airport.

Mullin’s statement, made in his first interview since taking on the role, is seen as a direct attack on local sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. He also criticized Democrats for wanting to defund Customs and Border Protection, and questioned the effectiveness of having sanctuary cities receive international flights while not fully enforcing immigration policies.

This proposal would affect 12 states and 18 cities that are recognized as sanctuary jurisdictions by the US government. Some of the major cities on this list, including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, have large airports that would be impacted by the withdrawal of customs officers.

While Mullin, a former Oklahoma senator and longtime ally of Trump, is unlikely to follow through with this proposal due to its potential negative impact on the aviation industry, experts have expressed concern over the idea. According to Todd Schulte, president of the pro-immigration organization FWD, this move would essentially end international air travel at US airports where 58% of international traffic occurs, causing significant damage to the economy.

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a potential Democratic presidential contender for 2028, also condemned the proposal, calling it a “stupid idea” and warning of the economic consequences it could have. This sentiment was echoed by many on social media who expressed concern over the potential effects on international travel and the economy.

The Trump administration has long been at odds with sanctuary jurisdictions, and has faced legal challenges in their attempts to retaliate against these cities through withholding federal funding. In February of this year, the partial government shutdown triggered a prolonged stand-off between Democrats and Republicans over immigration enforcement funding.

Overall, while this proposal is unlikely to be implemented, it highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and sanctuary cities over immigration policies.