Frederick, Maryland, Mayor Michael O’Connor drew fire from Conservatives after announcing new plans to provide taxpayer-funded assistance to illegal aliens facing deportation under President-elect Donald Trump.
The new proposal flies in the face of Trump’s enforcement efforts to deport illegals.
The mayor plans to create a legal defence fund to support immigrants, covering legal fees footed by the Taxpayer.
O’Connor said the fund aligns with Frederick’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
However, many opponents of the plan questioned the use of taxpayer money for a politically motivated cause.
Mayor O’Connor responded to criticism, arguing that undocumented residents contribute to the local economy and community.
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One local l immigrant advocacy group praised O’Connor’s plan, stating, “This fund will provide critical support for our community members who are unfairly targeted due to their immigration status.”
Opponents argue the fund prioritizes non-citizens over the needs of legal residents.
Local political activist Karen Thomas states, “While I sympathize with those in difficult situations, taxpayer funds should benefit Frederick’s citizens first. This decision is shortsighted and divisive.”
The proposals will be further debated in the upcoming city council meeting.
O’Connor also runs the risk of facing prosecution after Trump’s border Czar, Tom Homan, recently warned those planning to derail the new administration’s mass deportation plan would face jail time.
Homan warned that failing to comply with the deportation process would violate federal laws originally passed in 1952.
“There’s a clear line here, and they can’t cross a clear line,” the incoming border czar warned. “I would suggest she read Title 8, United States Code 1324 (iii) that says you can’t harbor or conceal an illegal alien from federal law enforcement.”
“There are certain laws in place that they can’t cross, and I hope she doesn’t cross it,” Homan reiterated.
Meanwhile, Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) also warned that disrupting Trump’s deportation plans could result in removal from office.
“You know, I’m 100% supportive of going after the 15,000 murderers, the 13,000 sexual assault perpetrators, rapists—let’s send them on their way to prison or back home to another prison,” Paul asserted.
“The police understand the Fourth Amendment. They go to judges, get warrants, and ensure specificity. So, I’m for removing these people, but through the normal process of domestic policing.”
Paul described such actions as a “form of insurrection,” which could have legal consequences.
