Tensions are high after recent riots erupted in Los Angeles following Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests. Now, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is taking a firm stance, sending a clear message to cities across the nation.

In a June 16th social media post, Secretary Sean Duffy declared that cities failing to protect their transportation infrastructure during these riots will not receive federal funding. His message was direct: “The @USDOT will NOT fund rogue state actors who refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. And to cities that stand by while rioters destroy transportation infrastructure—don’t expect a red cent from DOT, either. Follow the law, or forfeit the funding.”

The unrest, which began on June 6th, was sparked by ICE’s apprehension of numerous undocumented immigrants in Los Angeles, a city designated as a sanctuary city. These arrests were part of a larger investigation into alleged criminal activity including customs fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering. Sanctuary cities, by definition, actively limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement efforts.

This bold move by the DOT highlights the escalating conflict between federal immigration policy and local government responses. The implications for cities facing budget constraints and infrastructure repair needs are significant, placing increased pressure on local authorities to balance their commitment to sanctuary city policies with the potential loss of crucial federal funding.