immigration enforcement authorities

The Department of Homeland Security says it is launching a nationwide surge of immigration enforcement operations focused on so-called sanctuary cities. The announcement signals an escalation in the federal government's confrontation with local jurisdictions that limit cooperation with immigration authorities, and is likely to draw sharp reaction from city leaders and immigrant rights groups.

A legal and political battle is underway over whether US states can inspect federal immigrant detention facilities. State officials are seeking oversight powers to check conditions inside facilities operated by federal immigration authorities, while the federal government has resisted, arguing immigration detention falls under its jurisdiction. The dispute highlights broader tensions between states and Washington over immigration enforcement and detainee welfare.