Houston mayor signs order to limit cooperation with ICE, says ‘elections matter’ after Democrats win

Houston Mayor John Whitmire announced on Friday that the city would limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities, signaling a new approach to immigration enforcement following Democrats' victory in statewide elections in Texas. The mayor stated that the city would target individuals who pose a danger, rather than those engaged in routine family activities, work, or education.

Traffic incidents involving nonviolent, non-jailable offenses would not result in contact with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This decision aims to alleviate the fear and anxiety experienced by immigrant communities. The specifics of the new policy will be detailed in an executive order, but the mayor's move is among the initial steps taken to curb ICE's authority since the election on Tuesday.