Judge Dismisses Trump DOJ Sanctuary Lawsuit

A federal judge, Lindsay C. Jenkins, dismissed the Trump administration's lawsuit against Illinois, Chicago, and Cook County over their sanctuary policies, ruling that the Department of Justice lacked standing and failed to state a valid claim. The judge emphasized that the Tenth Amendment protects state and local governments from being compelled to enforce federal immigration laws. Jenkins found that the sanctuary policies do not violate the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause or unlawfully obstruct federal objectives as alleged by the administration. The ruling, issued without prejudice, allows the DOJ a month to refile its complaint, with the warning that dismissal could become final if not amended. Local officials and advocacy groups welcomed the decision, saying it supports state autonomy and public safety. The case is part of a wider legal effort by the Trump administration to challenge sanctuary policies across the country.