Wisniewski: Using National Guard to deport immigrants is Un-American;
Calls for New Jersey to declare Sanctuary State status

SAYREVILLE, N.J. – Assemblyman John Wisniewski released the following statement in response to the Associated Press’ report that President Trump is considering deploying National Guard troops to round up and deport thousands of immigrants.

“Deploying the National Guard to round up immigrants for deportation is appalling, Un-American and stands in direct conflict with our country’s moral tradition. The strength of the United States comes from its openness to new people and the adoption of new and challenging ideas. President Trump is hell-bent on destroying the country we love.

“This Administration must not be allowed to use an unconstitutional measure to federalize our National Guard into illegal commando units making military raids in our communities during the dark of the night. The National Guard’s purpose is to assure the safety and defense of our nation. Immigrants in our community are our neighbors, friends and employees — they are not a threat.

“That the Administration would even consider taking such a drastic and disturbing step — coupled with Governor Christie’s fawning gestures of being a ‘willing partner’ on immigration issues — makes it imperative that the Assembly prioritize our legislation to make New Jersey a Sanctuary State. We cannot wait. We must defend the lives of our fellow Americans.”

Assemblyman Wisniewski’s “Sanctuary State” bill — introduced on Wednesday — would prohibit law enforcement from using state resources to investigate, interrogate, detain, or arrest anyone for immigration enforcement reasons.

It also prevents state law enforcement officers from cooperating with federal officers on immigration issues. The legislation will create new data retention policies for schools and health care providers to prevent the federal government from being able to access individuals’ immigration status.