On Friday, I told you that President Donald Trump's Department of Homeland Security has designated both Lehigh and NorCo among 500 or so "sanctuary" jurisdictions. This label means that both counties will be denied any grants administered by the US Dep't of Justice. That's just the start. Two of Trump's edicts make clear he intends to withhold all federal funding from these local governments.
What astonishes me most about this designation is that it follows US Rep. Ryan Mackenzie's factually and legally challenged complaints in a Congressional hearing about undocumented immigrants who appear before NorCo's courts. His politically motivated diatribe is designed to damage NorCo Exec Lamont McClure, who at this moment appears to be the leading contender for the Democratic nomination in next year's Congressional race. But he does a disservice to Lehigh Valley residents who will be harmed far more by a cut in federal funding than they would ever be by some poor bastard who is tryng to provide for his family without the right "papers."
My Friday post resulted in numerous anonymous comments, many of which were completely unrelated to the topic. I declined to publish a few for that reason. But I will post a remark made by highly regarded immigration lawyer Ray Lahoud. His webpage includes a very useful summary of the changes Trump has already made. He notes they are "significantly altering U.S. immigration policy by enhancing border security, redefining citizenship criteria, and implementing drastic changes to asylum processes." Some of these changes, especially enhanced border security and the expedited removal of criminals, are undoubtedly popular. But some of his other changes, like the denial of birthright citizenship or refugee status, are far more questionable. Moreover, ICE, the agency that enforces Trump's agenda, is clearly overzealous. They act more like jack-booted thugs rounding up Jews in 1930s Germany than federal agents.
Lahoud is incidentally a Republican. Here's what he has to say, on his Facebook page, about the designation of the Lehigh Valley's two counties as "sanctuary" counties:
Fact: Northampton and Lehigh Counties are complying with federal law.
Fact: This list is absurd.
Fact: U.S. Congressman Ryan Mackenzie is responsible for adding NorCo and Lehigh Counties to this “list.”
Fact: Mackenzie does not understand the law on detainers/administrative warrants.
Fact: The Counties will lose necessary federal funding because of this “list.”
Fact: Ryan Mackenzie’s misinformation on the issue will be the sole reason for the loss of millions in federal funding for his constituents.
Fact: Ryan Mackenzie’s misinformation on this issue clearly establishes that he does not care about his constituents.
Northampton County has also issued this news release:
"Northampton County reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the constitutional principles that govern our Nation. We recognize and respect the Federal Government’s essential role in enforcing immigration laws. That is precisely why Northampton County fully cooperates with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.), in strict accordance with both the Pennsylvania Constitution and the United States Constitution.
"We believe that undocumented individuals who commit crimes should be deported. That is why we go well beyond what most jurisdictions do: Northampton County honors I.C.E. immigration detainers for up to 48 hours. This is a significant and proactive measure, underscoring our commitment to both public safety and lawful cooperation.
"However, the law is clear, local governments are not required to enforce federal immigration laws. Despite this, Northampton County remains transparent and cooperative. We inform I.C.E. of the date and time of release for any undocumented person under our custody, and are willing to coordinate releases at I.C.E.’s convenience.
"Importantly, when an individual has been ordered released by a judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Northampton County, our policy, consistent with constitutional due process, requires I.C.E. to obtain a judicial order before remanding that individual into federal custody. I.C.E. is fully aware of this legal requirement, yet routinely refuses to seek the constitutionally mandated court order. The refusal to follow due process lies not with Northampton County, but with I.C.E.
"The recent inclusion of Northampton County on a politically motivated list criticizing local jurisdictions is a blatant distortion of fact and a transparent act of partisan grandstanding. It is a smear rooted not in law or logic, but in naked MAGA politics."
"Northampton County will continue to uphold our responsibilities under the law, honoring our Constitution, protecting our community, and rejecting attempts to politicize public safety. Video footage of release and arrests are available upon request."
Northampton County Council and Lehigh County's Board of Commissioners should call on US Rep. Mackenzie to use the same influence he had in seeing that the counties he represents are targeted for denial of federal funding to ensure that the ridiculous designation of these two counties as sanctuaries is withdrawn.
In the meantime, DOJ grants to local law enforcement will stop. So if anyone has jeopardized the public safety of Lehigh Valley residents, it is Ryan Mackenzie and Donald Trump. not someone who has overstayed his visa.
75 comments:
Sure, Sanctuary counties are the All-American way to go it is great for us citizens.
Mackenzie wanted to run against Susan on the “beat her once theory.” But, he’s absolutely delighted Susan has anointed Carol OD as her hand selected candidate. Mackenzie is saying that how does Carol do better than Susan ? The answer is that she doesn’t. Carol could actually lose in what’s likely to be a good year for Dems. Mackenzie loves this.
Ryan is terrified of Lamont. Knows he would lost to Lamont. Wants to run against anybody, but Lamont.
Persons who have simply overstayed their visas, without breaking any of our other laws, are far down the list of concerns. Maybe they should return to their normal place of residence and then re-apply to return another day.
This ambitious effort to return control of American borders back to American government is solely needed. We have been carelessly overwhelmed, destabilized by absorbing thousands of serious and dangerous criminals, persons who have no interest in assimilating or being productive. Some come to expand gang activity, increase the distribution of lethal, illicit drugs, human trafficking, etc. We don’t want or need these people in our neighborhoods.
Nearly 3/4 of our legal population is satisfied by how this federal administration is working to fix this problem.
All local government agencies need to get out of the way of this effort. Getting new federal dollars (my money) must be earned. To me, that means being a team player and cooperating fully with what is asked.
I also suggest everyone come to understand what ‘birthright citizenship’ really was and why that matter no longer automatically applies.
Lahoud is " incidentally a Republican" like President Donald J. Trump is "incidentally Hitler". *
* Possible New Democrat talking point / narrative.
Did you type this ridiculousness as Boulder Colorado Jews were being set on fire by an illegal from Egypt? They paid the price for your, and Lahoud's virtue signaling. It's all fun and games until you get peacefullt protesting kids and elderly set on fire. Nice job.
Any attorney who has been touted as an excellent antidote to the "ravings of Trump" by an esteemed champion of America such as NBC News is certainly worth listening to.
Astonished I tell you lol.
I can't wait to see the twists these MAGA dips%its contort too
Let em at cake
Expect more of this. This is the issue that McClure is most vulnerable on. Bernie will try to help him any way he can.
Sanctuary counties are Anti America the Lawyer is right.
"The real threat is not someone who overstayed their Visa." Tell that to the victims families of yesterday's attacks on the Jewish demonstrators in Colorado. Anti-semitism is on steroids right now all over the country, but it doesn't fit your crazy, left-leaning narrative.
Last 2 of RL's facts are opinions not proven facts. BO, you really need to up your game.
Mackenzie is not the reason Norco was added to the list. McClure is the reason . You would think that Ray would be smarter than a lot of his comments for being an attorney.
I agree, but Bernie won't ever disagree with McClure- its quite shameful!
Ryan likes to brag that he went to Harvard for undergrad. One, his daddy got him in as his daddy also got him a State Representative seat. Ryan has never had a job in the private sector, yet he went to Harvard and NYU for grad school? Something’s doesn’t seem right here. The guy completely relies on his father to prop him up. Ryan is a complete lightweight.
All Mackenzie. He did this.
BTW to all the Mackenzie hacks on here…the Republican commissioners in Lehigh County agree with Ray Lahoud. Ryan is all show. #1TermCongressman
Set aside the virtue signaling, Democrats and supporters. Innocent lives are being taken by invading hoards from other cultures, and by paid mentally challenged anarchists who are actually brainwashed American citizens living among us.
It’s easy for politicians who believe they are immune from harm to look the other way. They pretend not to notice because they believe acknowledging the mess we are in reflects badly on their political party, or their own performance.
Screw that, you cowards!
@9:16: Ryan, it’s all your fault.
Mackenzie rode the Trump PA wave. He didn’t even think he would beat Susan. He was ready to cash in with some lobbying job but accidentally won (Susan was awful as well). He will be a one term Congressman. He’s out of his league and a lightweight.
I'm a Democrat who grew up with, and went to Notre Dame High with a number of Lebanese kids whose parents and/or grandparents came from Kfarsghab. I married one. They're proud Americans who arrived legally and followed due process. Requesting due process after willfully shunning due process to sneak into our country - or overstaying a visa once here - is an insult and affront to law-abiding Lebanese Americans (including my wife and kids). Ask around. Find out how they despise Ray for undermining their legal citizenship. The intent of this post is disgusting.
Our news media is highly compromised. Not necessarily working in America’s best interest. I have a personal distaste for our own radicalized Morning Call and don’t look there in search of trustworthy information.
You’re not kidding. The one time Ryan’s mommy actually did anything as a State Rep was call for McClure to resign. The Mackenzies are political hacks and dream to be a LV dynasty like the Bushes. That’s all they care about. They could give two shits about our region.
That's hysterical
This is 100% made up bull$%it by Mackenzie. He is costing YOU money now. What will it take for you to open your eyes, Your trailer being sold?, your healthcare being taken away?, you SS that you rely on cut in half? what?
What is the connection?
You're sick! Millions of undocumented illegals pouring in our country isn't the American way.
Despite Bernie's obsession, McClueless has been, at best, an average Executive, and has the absolute worst personality of any pol.
Nothing surprises me from Bernie anymore. He's a sell out, like the rest of the lunatics that are destroying the Democrat party. This post is disgusting!
Let millions flow in, promise them free stuff, so you can remake the electorate- the Bernie & Democrat playbook.
I have several friends who spent thousands and several years of following the law to become U.S. citizens. They despise people like you, who advocate jumping the line.
Decepticon Ryan Mackenzie is officially whipped and should resign in disgrace.
Your Lord and Saviour is Donald J. Trump.
Bow down to him!
HEY EVERYONE, YOU"RE MISSING THE POINT. McClure in his stupidity announced he is running for Congress. Get used to the cuts coming down from the Feds By Mackenzie. This is a message to McClure to Brace himself because Mackenzie is using Trump to shove it up McClures Ass. McClure brought this on himself by announcing so early. McClure will be the scapegoat for the Feds cutting Federal aid to the County. You're talking millions of dollars on top of cuts to Medicare and Social Security. Federal monies for highway projects, Gracedale, etc. will be coming all because McClure became the Democratic opponent to Mackenzie. This has nothing to do with illegals and everything to do with McClure defeating Mackenzie.
What does any of this have to do with the designation of NorCo and LehCo as sanctuary counties? Are we being overrun by violent criminals who are here from other countries? Are we in the LV destabilized by serious and dangerous criminals? No. There is no justification for the label.
It’s crazy! I don’t think he follows the news he’s too busy working for McClures campaign!
Exactly. What does this have to do with the designation of LehCo and Norco as sanctuary jurisdictions?
And do you have evidence that millions of "illegals" are here in the LV, and that our local governments are hiding them?
Yes, I would have phrased it a bit differently, but I am not Ray and I was quoting him.
How many billions did the millions of illegals cost this country? All of us have been paying for the last 4 years to feed, clothe, and house illegal immigrants at the expense of our own citizens. I see you show your true liberal elitism by insinuating that the person who disagrees with you lives in a trailer. Like Tapper said, this is why you fickers keep losing elections lol.
Excuse me, and I know this is a Mackenzie talking point, but it is quite clear to me that he is very much responsible. I already linked to his complaints about the Lehigh Valley in a homeland security congressional hearing, and the designation followed quite swiftly. It is clear he has a lot to do with it, and for political reasons. We'll see how this works out for him once the federal grants for human services, which save lives, stop. It appears to be starting.
Actually, he went to NYU. His Harvard degree is post-graduate
Boulder, CO attacker overstayed his visa, and look what happened. Get all these illegals OUT OF THE COUNTRY and if anyone is protecting them, cities, states, county, officials, make them play the price. Arrest them or cut their funding. They won’t feel have the pain of those who suffered or died at the hands of these criminals. Enforce the law!! Biden should be jailed.
Ah, Bernie. Such designations have been shown to attract miscreants. You know, like California, Colorado, etc. The point is, wide open borders have created a huge problem in many areas. We all need to come together, regardless of political party to fix this and ensure it doesn’t happen again.
Too many politicians, news agencies, bloggers and their contributors, are “dancing around the edges” so as not to share responsibility.
I always laugh when someone anonymously calls others cowards. You are very brave, lol. You talk about hoards [sic] from other cultures but fail to explain why NorCo and LehiCo are designated as sanctuary counties. That's what this is about, not your fear of people who don't look like you.
They moved many of the illegals to NY and other blue states to keep the population numbers up for the next census. They are losing congressional seats to Florida and Texas.
There’s no denyin’
He’s gonna be one-term Ryan.
“Mother, I don’t wanna run against Mr. McClure! Sometimes he’s not very nice!”
Crying’ Ryan
So your point is the Federal Government is punishing the County, because the executive chose to exercise his fundamental right to run for office? cause that's kind of a bad thing
@10:13democrats let in millions of illegal immigrants. It has cost federal, state and local taxpayers billions. NYC has spent 7 billion alone. Now you’re worried about money? Ok lol.
“Some of my best friends are immigrants.”
Sure.
When has Ray ever undermined the Lebanese Community? Your post is a complete fabrication. Ray is very well liked and respected in his Lebanese Community. You don’t even know who he represents as clients or you wouldn’t post such utter nonsense. I’ve been fortunate enough to attend events in that community and have seen first hand how much Ray is respected. They are proud of his success. He’s one of their own.
That's insane
But that has nothing to do with the designation of the LV's two counties as sanctuaries. You have provided no justification.
Yes, this commenter basically admits this designation is politically motivated.
And again, what does this have to do with the designation of the LV's two counties as sanctuary counties?
I would not and will not vote for MCClure. Despite some good things he has done his moral compass has no ethical portion and treats people very poorly. We don't need that
Is anyone shocked an immigration attorney is against what is, in it's basic form, described as "anti-immigration" policy? He is losing the butter on his bread from policy aimed to bolster the security/fairness of the country. "Trusting the experts" goes outside medicine.
BO, you have selective memory. You routinely cite your long friendship with RL. It is disingenuous to reference that without admitting that RL joined the Trump train after he won in '16, knowing that he stood to land a financial windfall doing immigration. Be honest, you don't recall RL supporting Hillary in '16?
Aside from these personal attacks aimed at Ray Lahoud, you have failed to provide any justification for why LehiCo and NorCo have both been designated as sanctuary jurisdictions.
Trump apparently obtained the attention of Lehigh and Northampton counties. Mission accomplished.
Maybe because both counties are suspected of not fully cooperating with ICE. They are not meeting someone’s expectation and are lumped in with other non-conforming areas as listed. The publication of the list also makes clear that any municipality or individual who is found to be interfering in this effort is subjecting themself to some form of punishment. Call it a warning, if you like. Something like “Cars parked illegally WILL be towed at owner’s expense.”
Fact: This list is absurd. --- OPINION, NOT FACT----
Fact: U.S. Congressman Ryan Mackenzie is responsible for adding NorCo and Lehigh Counties to this “list.” --- OPINION, NOT FACT----
Fact: Mackenzie does not understand the law on detainers/administrative warrants. --- OPINION, NOT FACT----
Fact: The Counties will lose necessary federal funding because of this “list.” --- OPINION, NOT FACT----
Fact: Ryan Mackenzie’s misinformation on the issue will be the sole reason for the loss of millions in federal funding for his constituents. --- OPINION, NOT FACT----
Fact: Ryan Mackenzie’s misinformation on this issue clearly establishes that he does not care about his constituents. --- OPINION, NOT FACT----
Surely, a "highly regarded immigration lawyer" with such command of the subject matter can provide the facts for us to consider his argument.
fact
a thing that is known or proved to be true.
o·pin·ion
a view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.
@9:55: the entire Lebanese in Easton hate each other. They are a bunch of show offs. Losers.
The “Lebanese” comment is hilarious. The 932am comment. Hate or love him, The “Lebanese” gladly take thousands from ray ray every year for that dumbass, loud party they throw every August.
So, you’re not Lebanese @9:55am? Yet, you speak for that entire community?
I’d genuinely like to know who wrote this comment, because anyone making a statement like that—especially about an entire community—should be willing to stand behind their words. I’m very active in the Lebanese community, and I can say with full confidence that I don’t know anyone who “despises” my brother.
If you truly believe there are members of our community who feel this way, I invite you to speak with me directly. I’ll be at church on Sunday—feel free to come find me and tell me who these people are. I’d welcome that conversation face-to-face, because I believe in dialogue over anonymous accusations.
Let’s raise the level of respect in this conversation.
I heard the lists were removed. Possible errors v. Updating .
Just a comment. Whenever democrats and Bernie speak about a federal agency they prefix with. Donald trumps DOJ....Donald trumps FbI. Etc. Did they ever in the past when referencing a federal agency say .....like obamas DOJ? Bush's treasury department?
Do the two counties have any "don't refer illegals who have committed a crime or misdemeanor to ICE" or "don't work with ICE beyond when they ask for help" ordinances? If so, that probably would make them sanctuary counties to some degree. If not, the designation is probably bullshit
I am unable to speak with certainty about Lehigh, but I know from what McClure told Council months ago that NorCo notifies ICE whenever they are holding an illegal, regardless of whether there is a warrant or a detainer. If ICE issues a detainer, the county will hold an additional 48 hours. But it will not release directly to ICE withoutt a warrant or court order.
Illegal immigrants are here because rich democrats and republicans and independents like them here because they are cheap labor for them. Always follow the money. A number of the immigrants are able to eventually start businesses and their children born here become citizens. Thats unless our nonprofits get involved and "support" them under the guise of charity or religion. There are also many opportunities for criminals fueled by our wacky citizens thirst for drugs and prostitution and stolen goods to make a living and frequently placing our law-abiding people in danger. Close the border, make breaking the law very painful. When I read about all the unemployed young men we have in our cities there is no need for immigrant labor. To poorly paraphrase "give us the poor...". Bullshit, they were and are cheap immigrant labor.
Fact: Ryan Mackenzie is a dirtbag.
Northampton county says they coordinate. They actually let them out of the jail and dhs has to be there at a specific time or they just walk away. They dont let dhs take custody of the person inside the jail where it is safer. So they partially cooperate
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