In a decisive move signaling a shift in the Department of Justice’s approach, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that the Trump administration has filed a lawsuit against New York State, targeting Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, and DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder.

The lawsuit alleges that these officials are violating federal law by protecting illegal immigrants from enforcement, particularly through New York’s Green Light laws. These laws enable illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses while limiting federal access to DMV databases.

Bondi referred to this as a “new DOJ” and stated that New York’s practice of prioritizing illegal immigrants over American citizens would come to an end. The lawsuit argues that the Green Light laws put public safety at risk by preventing law enforcement from conducting essential background checks on drivers, which increases the dangers faced by both officers and the public.

Governor Hochul defended the laws in response, highlighting New York’s dedication to safeguarding immigrants and public safety. She dismissed Bondi’s lawsuit as a publicity stunt. Attorney General James also pledged to protect the state’s sanctuary policies, describing them as crucial for the safety of New Yorkers.

The announcement was accompanied by a heartfelt testimony from Tammy Nobles, who shared the heartbreaking story of her daughter’s death at the hands of an illegal immigrant, which Bondi presented as a consequence of lenient immigration policies. This lawsuit is part of the broader Trump administration’s efforts to challenge sanctuary laws across the country.

This legal action marks a significant moment in the ongoing immigration debate, challenging states’ authority to implement sanctuary policies that prioritize the protection of immigrants. The outcome will have far-reaching consequences for the balance between federal immigration mandates and state-level enforcement policies.