In a heated congressional hearing, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna made waves by announcing her intention to refer four mayors for criminal prosecution, claiming their policies violate federal law. Luna stated that the officials’ approach to immigration enforcement conflicts with 8 U.S. Code § 1324, a federal statute addressing the unlawful assistance of undocumented individuals. Her call for accountability signals mounting tension between local leadership and federal immigration regulations.
During the hearing, Luna questioned the mayors’ stances on policies that prevent the transfer of individuals into ICE custody for civil immigration enforcement. She pressed them on whether their practices, which limit law enforcement’s ability to stop, arrest, or detain people based solely on their immigration status, foster illegal immigration in cities like Chicago. In response, Mayor Johnson maintained that their policies align with local, state, and federal laws — a statement Luna clearly found unconvincing.
Luna argued that the officials’ policies actively support a broken immigration system, making them complicit in exacerbating existing challenges. She stressed that so-called “open border” policies harm both undocumented immigrants and American citizens, creating dangerous conditions on both sides. By framing their actions as aiding and abetting unlawful activity, she made it clear that these policies have real and far-reaching consequences.
Despite asserting that she doesn’t believe the mayors have malicious intent, Luna suggested they are ideologically misguided. Citing their responses during the hearing, she announced her decision to refer them to the Department of Justice for investigation. She noted that she would immediately involve Pam Bondi, former Florida Attorney General, in the process of pursuing these criminal referrals.
In closing, Luna emphasized that her actions were not meant to intimidate but to hold public officials accountable for policies she believes harm the American people. Expressing frustration shared by many citizens, she urged the officials to reconsider their approaches, warning that their current course of action would only lead to more harm than good. With that, Luna concluded her remarks and formally yielded the floor.