Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers is under fire after issuing a memo that told state employees to avoid cooperating with federal immigration officials—even if they show up with a valid warrant. The directive, which has sparked outrage nationwide, advised government workers not to provide information or documents to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unless a state attorney was present.
Critics argue that this move essentially instructs state employees to block federal deportation efforts. Many see this as a serious overstep—especially from a sitting governor—prompting backlash from both lawmakers and citizens concerned about border security and public safety.
Former acting ICE director Tom Homan didn’t hold back at a May 1st press conference. When asked why no legal action had been taken against leaders of sanctuary cities, he simply said, “Wait to see what’s coming.” Speaking directly about Governor Evers’ memo, Homan warned, “If you cross the line by obstructing or concealing undocumented immigrants, that’s a felony—and we will act on it.”
Shortly afterward, Governor Evers released a video trying to walk back the directive, insisting, “I’ve never broken the law or told anyone else to.” His message, however, struck many as a nervous retreat in light of growing scrutiny from Washington.
Rather than addressing the concerns head-on, Evers pivoted to claim he was being unfairly targeted by Republicans and spoke about “values” and “the rule of law”—a curious defense given the circumstances. Despite the pushback, he insisted he wouldn’t back down from “doing what’s right.”
But the pressure is mounting. Conservative radio host Dan O’Donnell shared the leaked memo online and questioned whether Wisconsin may be employing undocumented immigrants in violation of federal law. Adding fuel to the fire, reports have emerged that a Milwaukee County judge was recently arrested for allegedly helping undocumented individuals avoid ICE arrest.
At a time when border security is a top concern, crime is rising, and taxpayer dollars are stretched thin, many Americans are calling for accountability—not resistance—from their elected officials.
Governor Evers’ actions, critics argue, show disregard for federal law and public safety. As Tom Homan bluntly put it, “Prepare for what’s coming.”