Winsome Sears Slams Sanctuary Policies in Virginia Immigration Push

Virginia Takes a Stand on Immigration Enforcement

On February 28, 2025, Virginia Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears appeared on 'The Ingraham Angle' to discuss the state's alignment with the Trump administration's immigration crackdown. Sears expressed strong support for federal efforts to prioritize public safety by targeting illegal immigrants with criminal records. Her comments focused on the need for local leaders to cooperate with federal authorities rather than obstructing enforcement through sanctuary policies.

Sears highlighted Virginia's commitment to supporting the Trump administration's policies, emphasizing that the state is taking active steps to ensure that dangerous individuals are not shielded from deportation. She criticized local leaders who resist federal immigration laws, arguing that such actions put Virginians at risk. Her appearance underscored a broader push within the state to align with federal priorities under President Donald J. Trump's leadership.

Criticism of 'Rogue' Local Leaders

During the segment, around the 2:30 mark, Sears specifically called out what she termed 'rogue' leaders who protect illegal immigrants over the safety of American citizens. She stated, 'We’re not having it in Virginia. These rogue leaders who think they can protect illegal immigrants over Virginians—it’s a shame.' Her words reflect a deep frustration with sanctuary policies that hinder cooperation between local and federal law enforcement.

Sears argued that protecting citizens should be the primary concern for all elected officials. She pointed out that Virginia is working to ensure that those who commit crimes and are in the country illegally are not allowed to remain free due to local resistance. Her stance aligns with the Trump administration's focus on removing criminal elements from communities across the nation.

Support for Federal Immigration Priorities

At approximately the 4:15 point in the discussion, Sears reiterated her support for the federal government's approach under President Trump. She emphasized that Virginia is fully on board with the administration’s efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, particularly in cases involving individuals with serious criminal convictions. Sears noted that the state is taking actionable steps to assist federal agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in their mission.

This partnership between Virginia and the federal government is seen as a model for other states, according to Sears. She stressed that the safety of American citizens must come first, and Virginia’s leadership is committed to ensuring that federal immigration laws are upheld. Her comments reflect a shared goal with the Trump administration to address the challenges posed by sanctuary jurisdictions.

Broader Implications for Virginia and Beyond

Sears also touched on the political landscape in Virginia, noting that Republican leaders like herself and Governor Glenn Youngkin are embracing the Trump administration’s policies despite past electoral challenges in the state. This shift, as discussed around the 6:00 mark, indicates a growing alignment with federal priorities on immigration enforcement. Sears believes that this approach resonates with many Virginians who prioritize safety and law enforcement.

The lieutenant governor’s remarks come at a time when the Trump administration is intensifying its focus on immigration enforcement through executive orders and legal actions. Virginia’s role in this effort highlights the state’s importance as a partner in ensuring that federal policies are implemented effectively at the local level. Sears’ outspoken support serves as a call to other states to follow suit and prioritize the protection of their citizens.

A Unified Front for Public Safety

Throughout her appearance on 'The Ingraham Angle,' Winsome Sears made it clear that Virginia stands with the Trump administration in its mission to secure communities from the threats posed by criminal illegal immigrants. Her criticism of sanctuary policies and 'rogue' leaders underscores a commitment to law and order that aligns with federal objectives. This unified front between state and federal authorities aims to send a strong message that public safety will not be compromised by local resistance.

As Virginia continues to support these efforts, Sears’ comments reflect a broader movement among Republican-led states to back the administration’s immigration crackdown. Her focus on protecting Virginians over shielding illegal immigrants with criminal histories reinforces the priority of citizen safety. This stance is likely to shape ongoing discussions about immigration policy in Virginia and across the United States as the Trump administration pushes forward with its agenda.