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Dallas Declares Itself Sanctuary City, Defying State Pressure

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  Published in Business and Finance on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 8:33 GMT by Fox News
      Locales: Texas, UNITED STATES

Dallas, TX - February 19th, 2026 - In a bold and potentially contentious move, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson yesterday officially designated Dallas as a "sanctuary city," reaffirming the city's commitment to supporting its undocumented residents despite escalating pressure from state legislators seeking to curtail such protections. The announcement, delivered through a comprehensive statement released online, represents a significant escalation in the ongoing debate surrounding immigration policy in Texas and sets the stage for a likely legal confrontation with State Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Johnson's declaration isn't merely symbolic. He explicitly framed the city's policies as foundational to Dallas' identity and economic prosperity, emphasizing the vital role undocumented individuals play in the city's workforce and overall growth. He countered arguments often levied against sanctuary policies - namely concerns about public safety - by positioning Dallas as a city that prioritizes inclusivity and opportunity for all its residents. "Dallas is a welcoming city," Johnson stated, "We want people to come here and be successful. We want people to feel safe. We want people to feel like they belong. That is who we are as a city."

The timing of Johnson's announcement is crucial. The Texas legislature has been actively pursuing legislation aimed at restricting the ability of cities to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement agencies, like ICE. Proposed bills seek to mandate full compliance with federal detainers, increasing scrutiny of individuals suspected of being undocumented, and implementing financial penalties for municipalities perceived as obstructing immigration law enforcement. These legislative efforts, fueled by a growing conservative sentiment within the state, directly challenge the principles underpinning Dallas' current policies.

While details of specific city policies weren't comprehensively outlined in the initial statement, it's understood Dallas has historically practiced a form of limited cooperation with federal immigration authorities, prioritizing local law enforcement resources on serious crimes rather than assisting with deportation efforts. This approach, common among many "sanctuary" jurisdictions, aims to foster trust between immigrant communities and local police, encouraging reporting of crimes without fear of immigration consequences. Johnson's statement reaffirms this practice will continue.

The response to Johnson's declaration has been predictably divided. Advocacy groups representing immigrant rights organizations have lauded the mayor's courage and commitment, praising him for standing up for vulnerable communities in the face of political opposition. "This is a monumental step forward for Dallas," said Elena Ramirez, Executive Director of the Texas Immigrant Rights Coalition. "Mayor Johnson's leadership sends a powerful message that Dallas values the contributions of all its residents, regardless of their immigration status. It provides a sense of security and hope to families who have built their lives here."

However, the announcement has drawn sharp criticism from conservative lawmakers and immigration hardliners. Attorney General Ken Paxton, a staunch opponent of sanctuary cities, swiftly condemned Johnson's statement, reiterating his position that such policies are illegal and endanger public safety. Paxton has previously filed lawsuits against other Texas cities attempting to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities, and is widely expected to initiate legal action against Dallas. He argues that these cities are actively obstructing federal law and creating a haven for criminals.

Legal experts predict a protracted legal battle, with the central question revolving around the extent of state authority to dictate local immigration enforcement policies. The case is likely to hinge on interpretations of state law regarding municipal powers and the principle of federal preemption - the idea that federal law takes precedence over state law when the two conflict. The outcome could have significant ramifications for other cities in Texas considering similar policies.

Beyond the legal ramifications, the situation also presents a potential political challenge for Johnson. While enjoying strong support within the city, he risks alienating conservative voters and potentially facing legislative repercussions from state officials. However, sources close to the mayor suggest he views the issue as a matter of principle and is prepared to weather any political fallout. He believes that embracing diversity and inclusion isn't just morally right, but economically advantageous for Dallas, attracting talent and investment from across the globe. The future of Dallas as a welcoming city, and the broader debate about immigration in Texas, now hangs in the balance.