North Carolina Republicans are poised to override Governor Roy Cooper’s veto on a controversial bill mandating local law enforcement cooperation with ICE, sparking intense debate over immigration enforcement and community safety.
At a Glance
- North Carolina GOP legislators aim to override Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto on an ICE collaboration bill
- The bill requires local law enforcement to cooperate with ICE and includes provisions for school vouchers
- Gov. Cooper criticized the bill as unconstitutional and politically motivated
- The ACLU and several local sheriffs oppose the bill, citing concerns over local authority and community safety
- GOP’s veto-proof supermajority will end next session, potentially impacting future legislative actions
GOP Pushes for Veto Override on ICE Collaboration Bill
North Carolina’s Republican-led legislature is set to override Democratic Governor Roy Cooper’s veto on a bill that would require local law enforcement to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The contentious legislation, which has been stalled for five years, mandates that local police forces collaborate with federal immigration authorities and includes provisions for school vouchers.
The GOP’s veto-proof supermajority in the state legislature provides them with the necessary votes to overturn the governor’s decision. However, this supermajority will come to an end in the next session, as Democrats have gained seats in recent elections. This political shift adds urgency to the Republicans’ efforts to pass the bill before their advantage diminishes.
The GOP’s power to override NC governor’s veto hinges on these two close races https://t.co/gqQe6nsDl1
— The News & Observer (@newsobserver) November 6, 2024
Governor Cooper’s Stance and Opposition
Governor Roy Cooper has been vocal in his opposition to the bill, characterizing it as unconstitutional and a misuse of resources. In a statement, Cooper criticized the legislation, saying it was “only about scoring political points and using fear to divide North Carolinians.” The governor’s concerns reflect a broader debate about the role of local law enforcement in federal immigration matters.
“only about scoring political points and using fear to divide North Carolinians.” – Gov. Roy Cooper
The North Carolina branch of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has joined the governor in opposing the bill. The organization argues that the legislation “circumvents the local authority of sheriffs by requiring them to cooperate with ICE and assist in the federal government’s deportation pipeline.” This stance highlights concerns about the potential impact on local governance and community relations.
Support for Stringent Enforcement
Proponents of the bill, including former ICE Director Thomas Homan, advocate for stricter enforcement measures. Homan has indicated that if local authorities do not cooperate, federal agents will take independent action, potentially doubling their presence in non-cooperative areas. This approach underscores the tension between federal immigration priorities and local law enforcement practices.
State Rep. Destin Hall, R-Lenoir, defended the bill against criticism, calling opposition arguments “factually incorrect.” Supporters emphasize that the legislation would only apply to individuals who have committed serious felonies or violent misdemeanors, aiming to focus on public safety concerns rather than broader immigration issues.
Political Implications and Future Outlook
The push to override the veto comes at a critical juncture in North Carolina politics. With the GOP’s supermajority set to end after a brief session next week, future veto overrides will require bipartisan support. This changing political landscape may significantly impact the state’s approach to immigration enforcement and other contentious issues in the coming years.
As the debate continues, both supporters and opponents of the bill recognize its potential to reshape North Carolina’s relationship with federal immigration authorities. The outcome of this legislative battle will likely have lasting implications for law enforcement practices, community relations, and the balance of power between state and local governments in the Tar Heel State.
Sources:
- North Carolina to override Dem veto calling for cooperation with ICE while Trump calls for agency reform
- As Trump returns to White House, NC GOP moving to require sheriffs to cooperate with ICE
- North Carolina to override Dem veto calling for cooperation with ICE while Trump calls for agency reform
