Democratic Denver Mayor Mike Johnston recently made a bold statement. He said he’s ready to go to jail over his opposition to the Trump administration’s border policies. Trump’s pick for "border czar" had a sharp response.
Tom Homan, the designated "border czar," didn’t mince words. “You are absolutely breaking the law,” Homan told Fox News’ Sean Hannity. He referred to Arizona v. U.S., claiming Johnston’s stance violates federal law. “He’s willing to go to jail, I’m willing to put him in jail,” Homan added.
Johnston predicted a "Tiananmen Square moment" if the administration moves forward with its plans. Homan fired back, citing a statute. He said knowingly harboring and concealing illegal immigrants is a felony.
Homan defended the administration’s approach. “We have to secure this country and save lives,” he said. He stressed that Trump’s focus is on public safety and national security threats.
Homan questioned Johnston’s position. “I find it hard to believe that any governor would say they don’t want public safety threats removed from their neighborhoods,” he remarked.
In an interview, Johnston explained his stance. He’s ready to protest policies he deems "illegal or immoral or un-American.” Asked if he’d go to jail for his beliefs, Johnston didn’t back down. “Yeah, I’m not afraid of that, and I’m also not seeking that,” he said.
Johnston said he’d support limited deportations. Those convicted of serious crimes, he believes, should face deportation. He added that his city would cooperate if the focus remained on violent criminals.
Homan stood firm. If Johnston refuses to act, he said Trump and ICE will. Homan, a former acting ICE director, emphasized their commitment to protecting communities.