DHS Proposal to Withdraw Customs Staff from Sanctuary Cities Raises Travel Chaos Concerns
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is considering a proposal to reduce or withdraw customs processing staff from major U.S. airports located in sanctuary cities. This move, spearheaded by DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, targets jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Newark Liberty International Airport has been identified as an initial focus, with potential plans to redeploy customs officers to support immigration enforcement operations. The proposal has sparked warnings from airlines and industry groups about the potential for significant travel disruptions. These groups caution that even partial reductions in customs processing could lead to delays, cancellations, and widespread disruption across both U.S. and global flight networks, affecting millions of international passengers, U.S. travelers, airlines, and cargo shipments. 
