In a recent combative statement, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy denounced a judge's ruling that challenged the interplay between state and federal jurisdictions over immigration enforcement. Duffy posted his thoughts publicly, criticizing what he perceives as "judicial activism" and an affront to the clear authority outlined in federal immigration laws. His remarks come in response to a decision suggesting states may have space to chart their own course when it comes to compliance with these policies.
"It is the responsibility of the states to adhere, not to undermine, the law of the land," Duffy stated, according to a release on the Department of Transportation's website. The secretary's statement articulates a clear pushback against the judge's reasoning. Duffy believes that by allowing states to slowly distance themselves from federal mandates, the judicial system is setting a precedent that could destabilize the uniformity of how laws are enforced across the country.
Duffy's argument is rooted in the idea that immigration laws, being federal, should not be subject to state-level reinterpretation. "Federal law is the supreme law of the land and provides the bedrock of our national unity," he added, reflecting a regard for a cohesive national policy over immigration, according to the Department of Transportation. The secretary points to potential risks in national security and public safety arising from incoherence in how states choose to comply with federal immigration laws.
This debate around the authority of states versus the federal government is far from new, but the recent ruling has injected fresh urgency into the discussion. As the executive of the DOT, Duffy's role usually focuses on transportation policies, but given the breadth of immigration's impact, his decision to publicly weigh in signifies the cross-sectoral significance of the issue.
