(NewsNation) — Four Democratic mayors from sanctuary cities are set to testify Wednesday before the House Oversight Committee in what observers expect will be a contentious hearing focused on immigration policies.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu will appear as the Trump administration intensifies its mass deportation efforts, putting sanctuary city policies under increased scrutiny.
The four cities have struggled to manage the influx of migrants from the southern border, collectively spending billions of dollars on shelter and support services.
Republican committee members are expected to criticize the mayors for not cooperating with federal immigration authorities, likely citing crimes allegedly committed by migrants and questioning whether the mayors are adequately protecting their constituents.
Mayor Adams may face less criticism from Republicans after recently meeting with Trump’s border czar Tom Homan and agreeing to assist federal authorities in apprehending undocumented migrants with criminal records in New York City.
However, Adams’ cooperation comes after the Justice Department moved to drop corruption and bribery charges against him, raising questions about potential political motivations. Adams has denied any quid pro quo, stating he is “not beholden to the Trump administration” but is “just doing what he thinks is right.”
Meanwhile, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced his candidacy for New York City mayor, planning a rally in lower Manhattan where he is expected to receive his first labor endorsement from the Carpenters’ Union.
A recent poll conducted by NewsNation affiliate WPIX, Emerson College and The Hill shows Cuomo leading in the Democratic primary race despite the sexual harassment allegations that led to his resignation as governor in 2021.
Critics are organizing counter-demonstrations to remind voters of the accusations made against Cuomo by nearly a dozen women.
During the early pandemic, Cuomo had a complex relationship with then-President Trump, occasionally cooperating with the administration but also publicly challenging federal policies when he disagreed with them.
