UPDATE: New York officials are pushing back against President Donald Trump‘s latest threats to cut funding to sanctuary cities, including New York City. This urgent response comes after Trump announced that federal funding could be frozen starting February 1, targeting cities that do not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated, “Our values and our laws are not bargaining chips, and we will stand up for them even in the face of these kinds of threats.” His comments reflect a firm commitment to protect the city’s sanctuary status, emphasizing that discussions with Trump have consistently revolved around advocating for New York City.
Mamdani revealed that he has reached out to Trump directly but has yet to connect. “I will continue to make the case for New York City,” he affirmed, underlining his determination to resist federal intimidation.
Governor Kathy Hochul echoed this defiance, warning that the administration’s threats are merely attempts to intimidate New York into compliance. “You touch any more money from the state of New York, we’ll see you in court,” Hochul declared, signaling a readiness to fight any funding cuts in legal battles.
Trump’s announcement also impacts significant funding streams, as New York City receives approximately $8 billion annually from the federal government, which supports crucial services like housing, public health, and education. At the state level, federal dollars are vital for Medicaid and healthcare costs, totaling around $90 billion each year.
Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, cautioned that Trump’s funding threats have not always materialized in the past. “What we’ve learned over the last year is that the initial statements do not reflect the reality more often than not,” he noted, emphasizing the need for preparedness.
In light of potential funding cuts, Mamdani assured New Yorkers that his administration is prepared to tackle these challenges head-on. “I am proud of the team that we have to be able to respond to these kinds of threats,” he said, indicating that the city is not merely defensive but also advancing a broader agenda in response to federal actions.
As this situation develops, all eyes are on how New York will navigate these threats and what legal strategies will be employed to protect its funding and sanctuary status. The stakes are high, with vital services for millions of New Yorkers hanging in the balance.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
