Part 4/7:
During the discussion, Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies for the Center for Immigration Studies, addressed a common rationale provided by supporters of sanctuary policies. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal from the Progressive Caucus articulated that these policies are intended to foster trust within immigrant communities. She argued that when immigrants, both legal and undocumented, know they won’t face deportation for seeking help, they are more likely to report crimes, ultimately benefiting community safety.
However, Vaughan countered this notion by referencing data from the Department of Justice revealing that immigrants report crimes at rates comparable to American citizens. This fact casts doubt on the effectiveness of sanctuary policies in enhancing community safety.