DHS reviews reducing CBP staffing at sanctuary airports

The Department of Homeland Security is considering a proposal to reduce customs staffing at major international airports in cities and states with so-called sanctuary policies, a move that could force airlines to cancel or reroute overseas flights. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin has privately discussed the plan with airline and travel industry executives, warning that airports in jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement could be affected.

According to multiple sources familiar with the discussions, Mullin told executives at a meeting last week that he may reduce Customs and Border Protection staffing at airports serving sanctuary jurisdictions. Locations mentioned as potentially affected include New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Portland International Airport. Other major hubs like those in Denver, Philadelphia, Seattle, and San Francisco have also been referenced in discussions.

The proposal builds on comments Mullin made in an April television interview, where he questioned...