U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, held a hearing titled “Protecting American Citizenship II: Federalism, Sanctuary Cities, and the Rule of Law” in Washington, D.C., on Mar. 26. The hearing focused on the effects of sanctuary city policies and included testimony from individuals affected by crimes committed by undocumented immigrants.
The topic is significant as it addresses ongoing debates about immigration enforcement and public safety in communities across the country. The discussion highlighted differing views among lawmakers regarding cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
During his opening remarks, Schmitt said, “There are moments when a policy debate stops being a policy debate… what we’re left with is very simple question about the first duty of government. Sanctuary policies force this question… It’s about who comes first, the American citizen or the illegal alien? And sanctuary jurisdictions have answered that question… They put the illegal alien first.” He continued to describe several cases where crimes were committed by undocumented immigrants released due to sanctuary policies: “These are not freak accidents. They’re not acts of God. There are foreseeable consequences of public officials making a conscious decision to obstruct immigration enforcement and release people who should never have been released back onto the streets in the first place.”
Schmitt asked Joe Abraham, whose daughter was killed by an undocumented immigrant released in a sanctuary city, for his perspective: “I appreciate your courage in being outspoken about this. What message would you give to these politicians who defend sanctuary cities? What are they missing, what do they not understand about the impact that this has?” Abraham replied: “First, I know they have no consideration for that… I wish they were able to put themselves in someone else’s position and look at what their policies are doing… If you want to get down to the nitty gritty here; anyone who came in during the Biden regime ought to be looked at… How does it become that way? It shouldn’t just be worst of the worst. I’m sorry they missed that.”
According to the official website, Schmitt engages Missouri youth through programs like his Youth Council aimed at promoting civic engagement and leadership. He comes from a sixth-generation Missouri family with backgrounds in farming, teaching and small business ownership according to his official biography. Schmitt also serves as vice chairman of the Joint Economic Committee alongside other Senate committee roles as noted online.
Schmitt draws inspiration from personal family experiences—particularly advocating for families with special needs—to guide his work supporting Missourians according to information provided. His focus includes protecting free speech rights and challenging administrative decisions affecting Missouri families as stated by his office.
Observers will continue watching how congressional discussions around federalism and local control shape future legislation concerning immigration enforcement.
