Kim: Airport immigration penalties could trigger broad economic damage

Sen. Andy Kim warned that proposals to punish airports for immigration enforcement—such as pulling customs staff from sanctuary cities—would cause widespread economic damage, potentially affecting Newark and national travel ahead of World Cup events in New Jersey. Homeland Security Secretary Mullin floated the idea, but it drew limited support and pushback from Transportation Secretary Duffy. Kim’s remarks followed his visit to Newark's Delaney Hall detention center amid protests and a hunger strike, with the administration denying major issues while Democrats criticized conditions. The debate highlights tensions over sanctuary policies and immigration enforcement.