MADISON, Wis. — With less than a week until President-elect Donald Trump takes office, local leaders in Dane County are standing firm against his promises to implement major immigration changes on his first day in office.
Trump has vowed to sign over 100 executive orders, including measures to militarize the southern border, carry out large-scale deportations, and expand the expedited removal process.
In response, Dane County Executive Melissa Agard and District Attorney Ismael Ozanne held a press conference on Wednesday, reassuring local residents that “nothing would change” in Dane County.
“This period is going to be no different for us here in Dane County,” Agard said.
Both leaders emphasized that all residents, regardless of their immigration status, should feel safe interacting with local law enforcement without fear of deportation.
“Our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods become less safe when our neighbors and loved ones are afraid to report crimes or engage with our criminal justice system,” Ozanne stated.
Ozanne also clarified that his office operates separately from federal agencies.
“The District Attorney’s Office is separate from the federal government. We are not immigration enforcement,” he said.
Ozanne warned that mass deportations could hinder justice.
“Mass deportations may allow violent offenders facing serious charges to escape accountability,” Ozanne explained. “It could effectively serve as a ‘get out of jail free’ card.”
Both Agard and Ozanne reiterated that checking immigration status will not be a priority for local law enforcement.
“Our job is to protect those who live, work, and play in Dane County,” Agard said. “Deportation can tear apart families, harm children, and disrupt our economy. The consequences are long-lasting.”
Dane County established an Office of Immigration Affairs in 2017, in response to the political climate under Trump’s first term, to support and protect its immigrant community.
Related topics:
