The Governor of Massachusetts, Maura Healey, has expressed her endorsement for the apprehension of criminal undocumented immigrants, underscoring the significance of “the apprehension of criminals in our communities.” During a press conference on Thursday, she affirmed her support for the arrest of individuals engaged in criminal activities, irrespective of their immigration status, as reported by local news outlet WCVB.
According to Fox News, ICE agents in Boston executed eight arrests this week, which included several members of MS-13, individuals with Interpol Red Notices, and suspects wanted for serious offenses such as murder and rape, as well as a violent gang member from Haiti with 18 prior convictions. During the operation, the gang member reportedly exclaimed, “I ain’t going back to Haiti!” and “F— Trump, Biden forever!”
These arrests are part of the Trump administration’s vigorous initiative to implement a historic mass deportation campaign, primarily targeting individuals deemed a threat to public safety.
In reference to the arrests, Governor Healey stated that she would not categorize them as raids, but rather as “the apprehension of criminals in our communities,” which aligns with her expectations and support. She remarked, “Whether you’re documented or undocumented, if you commit crimes, you are subject to investigation, prosecution, and accountability, and it appears that is what transpired,” as reported by Boston 25.
However, her statements indicate a significant shift from her earlier stance prior to the inauguration of the 47th president. Healey, who had previously committed in November to oppose Trump’s deportation initiatives, reiterated that Massachusetts does not function as a sanctuary state, despite a 2017 ruling by the state Supreme Judicial Court that limits law enforcement’s collaboration with ICE.
In November, Healey had asserted that state police would “absolutely not” assist in Trump’s mass deportation efforts, pledging to utilize “every tool in the toolbox” to safeguard residents in the predominantly Democratic state.
Healey has recently shifted towards a more centrist position regarding immigration enforcement. Following the discovery of an undocumented migrant misusing the state’s shelter system for illicit activities, Healey expressed her indignation and mandated a thorough review of the system. Additionally, she communicated with Massachusetts legislative leaders, advocating for amendments to the state’s “right to shelter” laws to exclude undocumented immigrants.
At that time, she remarked that Trump would have the chance to address an allegedly flawed immigration system, stating, “I hope he does.” However, critics of Democratic policies contend that the immigration system is not “broken.” Instead, they argue that leaders in predominantly blue states and cities are unwilling to enforce existing laws or collaborate with federal authorities seeking to uphold them.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell continues to be a staunch critic of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. This week, she has actively utilized social media to voice her discontent and critique Trump’s immigration stance, asserting in one post, “State & local law enforcement cannot be commandeered for federal immigration enforcement. Despite what President Trump may think, he doesn’t have the authority to unilaterally rewrite our Constitution.” She further emphasized that “State AGs won’t hesitate to respond if his threats become illegal actions.”
In the meantime, Republican state Representatives Michael Soter and Kenneth Sweezey introduced new legislation on Friday, titled “An Act to promote and protect safety in the Commonwealth,” which would enable local and state law enforcement to enhance cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
“The immigration issue in Massachusetts has spiraled out of control,” Sweezey stated in a communication to Fox News Digital. “This legislation represents a straightforward, common-sense initial step towards addressing part of the problem.”
