(DailyAnswer.org) – Denver Mayor Mike Johnston recently stirred controversy with comments about President-elect Trump’s planned deportation ramp-up. While expressing his opposition to mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, Johnston used a striking comparison, calling it a potential “Tiananmen Square moment.” This reference, drawn from the infamous 1989 protests in China, sparked criticism and forced the mayor to clarify his position.
In an interview last week, Johnston argued that Denver residents would stand against large-scale deportation operations. He envisioned locals rallying in defense of their immigrant neighbors. “You’d see 50,000 Denverites out there,” he said. “You don’t want to mess with them.”
However, during a follow-up interview with 9News, Johnston walked back his choice of words. “Would I have taken it back if I could? Yes, I probably wouldn’t have used that image,” he admitted. “What I was trying to say is this is an outcome I hope we can avoid.” Johnston emphasized that he opposes any actions he deems “illegal, immoral, or un-American,” even suggesting he’d be willing to face arrest to uphold his beliefs. Still, he stressed his preference for negotiation over confrontation. He clarified his willingness to face arrest in defense of Denver’s immigrant community.
The mayor clarified his stance on deportation, stating he supports targeting violent criminals. “If you’re committing serious crimes like murder or rape in Denver, you should be prosecuted and deported,” he said. Johnston noted his administration would cooperate with federal authorities on cases involving dangerous offenders but drew the line at widespread deportation efforts. This position reflects his broader immigration policy, focusing on dangerous offenders rather than mass deportations.
The Trump administration’s immigration plan has sparked fierce debate across the country. Democratic leaders in states like Illinois, Arizona, and Massachusetts have vowed not to assist with large-scale deportations. Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs labeled the plan “misguided,” declaring her state wouldn’t participate in actions that “harm or terrorize our communities.”
Meanwhile, some Republican leaders have voiced support. Texas officials, for example, have offered land near the border to aid deportation efforts. Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham expressed full backing for the plan, calling it necessary to remove violent criminals. As this debate continues, the clash between Johnston and federal immigration officials underscores the complexity of balancing local and national priorities.
As Trump’s inauguration approaches, the battle lines over immigration enforcement are becoming increasingly clear. The issue is poised to remain a flashpoint between state and federal officials.
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