San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie announced on March 14, 2024, that plans for the federal deployment of immigration officers to the city have been cancelled. Lurie communicated with President Donald Trump, who assured him that no federal troops would be sent to San Francisco. The mayor expressed relief, stating that such a deployment would not lead to a reduction in crime but instead create “chaos and violence.”
During a conversation on Wednesday night, Lurie emphasized to Trump that San Francisco is experiencing a resurgence, with visitors returning, buildings being leased or purchased, and employees coming back to their offices. He highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to address crime through partnerships with local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, DEA, and ATF. Lurie remarked, “We have work to do… but having the military and militarized immigration enforcement in our city will hinder our recovery.”
Following their discussion, Lurie confirmed that Trump had communicated the decision to call off any plans for federal deployment. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem reaffirmed this decision in a subsequent conversation with the mayor on March 15, 2024. Lurie stated that his administration would continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring the city is prepared for any potential changes.
Trump later confirmed the conversation on his social media platform, Truth Social, noting that Lurie was making “substantial progress” in addressing crime in the city. Earlier this month, Trump had announced intentions to send border patrol agents into San Francisco as part of a broader initiative to locate migrants living illegally in the United States.
The initial deployment plan had raised significant concerns among local officials. Lurie criticized these tactics, stating they are designed to incite backlash and violence, which could then justify military enforcement in urban areas. “Our communities have already endured the painful impact of aggressive immigration enforcement,” he wrote on social media, referring to the heightened operations across the country.
In response to the federal plans, Lurie signed an executive directive to bolster support for the city’s immigrant communities. He stated, “While we cannot control the federal government, here in San Francisco, we define who we are. We stick to our values. We support our communities the way we always have.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom also expressed his opposition to the proposed federal deployment, characterizing the move as “right out of the dictator’s handbook” on social media.
The situation highlights the ongoing tension between local and federal authorities regarding immigration enforcement, particularly in cities like San Francisco that prioritize inclusivity and the protection of immigrant communities. As the city moves forward, Lurie remains committed to ensuring that San Francisco continues to thrive, emphasizing the importance of partnership without militarization.