Washington Sheriff Bob Songer boldly defies state sanctuary laws, telling ICE to “put me on speed dial” while pledging full cooperation with federal immigration enforcement despite potential legal consequences.
Key Takeaways
- Sheriff Bob Songer of Klickitat County, Washington is openly defying his state’s sanctuary laws by publicly inviting ICE officials to contact him for assistance in immigration enforcement.
- Songer, with 56 years in law enforcement and serving his third term as sheriff, argues Washington’s sanctuary policies are unconstitutional and compromise public safety.
- His stance directly opposes Democratic Governor Bob Ferguson’s position on protecting undocumented residents and aligns with President Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda.
- Republican sheriffs nationwide are preparing to expand their role in arresting undocumented immigrants as Trump plans major deportation initiatives.
- Songer emphasizes that as an elected sheriff, his responsibility is to the people rather than state officials, and he intends to fully cooperate with federal authorities.
Sheriff Songer’s Bold Stand Against Sanctuary Policies
Sheriff Bob Songer of Klickitat County, Washington has positioned himself as a formidable opponent to his state’s sanctuary laws, publicly defying regulations that prohibit local law enforcement from assisting federal immigration authorities. In a direct challenge to state leadership, Songer has extended an open invitation to ICE officials, telling them to “put me on speed dial” for immigration enforcement assistance. His third-term stance represents a growing divide between local law enforcement leaders and state governments in areas with sanctuary policies, highlighting tensions that are likely to intensify under President Trump’s immigration initiatives.
Songer, with 56 years in law enforcement experience, has released videos criticizing what he characterizes as an “invasion” of illegal immigrants. His position directly contradicts Washington’s sanctuary laws, which were designed to shield immigrant communities from federal immigration enforcement. While Democratic Governor Bob Ferguson supports these protective measures, Songer contends they undermine public safety and violate constitutional principles. The sheriff maintains that his loyalty lies with his constituents, who he claims demand stronger immigration enforcement, rather than with state officials promoting sanctuary policies.
The Constitutional Sheriff Movement and Trump’s Immigration Plans
Songer’s defiance represents a broader movement gaining momentum among Republican sheriffs nationwide. Many sheriffs feel politically empowered by Trump’s election and are ready to assist with his ambitious deportation plans. The “constitutional sheriffs” movement, a far-right coalition that believes sheriff authority supersedes federal and state law in their counties, has become particularly vocal in supporting aggressive immigration enforcement. This alliance between Trump and supportive sheriffs is expected to play a crucial role in expanding federal programs that empower local law enforcement to interview and detain suspected undocumented immigrants.
“Sheriffs are going to be emboldened. You’re going to see sheriffs very, very active in this immigration front” – Thomas Hodgson
The 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to assist in immigration enforcement, is widely expected to see significant expansion under Trump’s administration. Republican governors like Florida’s Ron DeSantis are already aligning state resources to support this immigration agenda, with some even calling for legislative action to suspend local officials who neglect immigration duties. This coordinated approach between federal, state, and local authorities represents a direct challenge to sanctuary jurisdictions that have limited cooperation with ICE in recent years.
The Clash Between Federal Enforcement and State Protection
Sheriff Songer’s stance highlights the fundamental conflict between federal immigration enforcement and state sanctuary protections. He vehemently rejects the characterization of illegal border crossing as merely a civil infraction, asserting that it constitutes a federal crime warranting enforcement action. This perspective places him at odds with Washington state leadership but aligns perfectly with Trump’s deportation agenda. Songer has expressed particular concern over government benefits provided to illegal immigrants while veterans and homeless citizens struggle, a position that resonates strongly with his conservative constituency.
“I will cooperate with ICE 100 percent because they’re doing the right thing.” – Sheriff Bob Songer
Immigration advocacy groups are already preparing legal challenges to Trump’s deportation efforts, citing potential civil rights violations. Meanwhile, conflicting state laws and local ordinances create a complex legal landscape that will likely result in protracted court battles. The Major County Sheriffs Association has expressed opposition to funding penalties for sheriffs in sanctuary cities, suggesting that enforcement efforts may vary significantly across jurisdictions. Despite these challenges, Songer remains resolute in his commitment to assist federal authorities, maintaining that as long as he holds office, immigration laws will be enforced in Klickitat County regardless of Washington’s sanctuary status.
