State Senate candidate says Hochul and James are handcuffing police and putting politics ahead of public safe
Republican State Senate candidate Anthony Merante joined concerned citizens Monday evening outside the Grinton I. Will Library to protest New York’s ban on local law-enforcement participation in the federal 287(g) immigration program.
Inside, members of the Democratic state delegation held an event promoted as a town hall. Residents, however, were not permitted to speak directly and were required to submit questions on index cards. Of the approximately 30 questions submitted, the delegation selected only a few to answer while avoiding the more difficult ones.
“This was not a true town hall,” Merante said. “Albany Democrats were more interested in pontificating and congratulating themselves than engaging in a meaningful dialogue with the citizens they represent.”
The 287(g) program allows specially trained local officers to assist ICE under federal supervision. Merante argued that local authorities should be permitted to determine whether someone already under arrest, is wanted by federal authorities or connected to a violent criminal organization.
“Albany should not block police from accessing information that could protect the public and save lives,” he said.
Merante also maintained that the restrictions raise serious constitutional questions.
“The Constitution is not optional, and Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James are not above federal law,” he stated. “The Supremacy Clause makes federal law the supreme law of the land. Albany should not obstruct lawful federal immigration enforcement simply because its political leaders disagree with federal policy.”
He added that the ongoing court fight is far from over and accused Hochul, James and Albany Democrats of placing their sanctuary-state agenda ahead of public safety.
“They are handcuffing police, undermining local control and putting partisan politics ahead of New York families,” Merante concluded. “It is time to stand with our police, defend the Constitution and restore common sense.”