Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, a Democrat, has made it clear that he is ready to defy President-elect Donald Trump’s plans for mass deportations of migrants in Colorado. His unwavering support for migrants comes as sanctuary cities across the U.S. prepare for potential federal confrontations.
In an interview with Denver’s station 9, Johnston, 50, stated:
“I’m prepared to serve time in prison to stop any deportation attempts in Denver.”
Johnston vowed to deploy local law enforcement and rally 50,000 Denver residents to safeguard the city’s migrants. Referring to this collective resistance, he likened it to a “Tiananmen Square moment,” emphasizing the community’s determination to protect its vulnerable members.
While Johnston’s bold comparison to Tiananmen Square sparked praise from some, it also drew sharp criticism.
The Trump administration has vowed to crack down on sanctuary cities like Denver.
Despite the pressure, Johnston remained firm, stating:
“We won’t allow local law enforcement to aid in federal apprehensions of undocumented migrants.”
Elon Musk, newly appointed head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), criticized Johnston’s stance, claiming it shows the Denver mayor’s disregard for his constituents.
Johnston, however, continues to double down on his promise to protect migrants, emphasizing Denver’s identity as a sanctuary city and its commitment to its residents, regardless of their immigration status.
As the debate over sanctuary cities intensifies, Johnston’s stand positions Denver at the heart of the fight between local resistance and federal immigration enforcement.
