Denver Mayor Bars ICE Agents From City Property

Cites need to protect peaceful protesters and uphold civil liberties

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has issued an executive order barring U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from accessing city-owned property without a valid court order. The mayor also directed the Denver Police Department to provide protection for peaceful protesters exercising their First Amendment rights.

Why it matters

The move by Mayor Johnston is part of a growing trend of local governments pushing back against federal immigration enforcement efforts, which some see as overreach and a violation of civil liberties. Denver's stance could inspire other cities to take similar actions and sets up a potential legal showdown with the federal government.

The details

Mayor Johnston's order prohibits ICE agents from entering any city-owned building, park, or other property without a valid judicial warrant. It also requires the Denver Police Department to protect the rights of peaceful protesters, including providing security and ensuring their safety. The mayor cited concerns about ICE's tactics and the need to uphold the civil liberties of all Denver residents, regardless of immigration status.

  • Mayor Johnston issued the executive order on February 25, 2026.

The players

Mike Johnston

The mayor of Denver, Colorado, who issued the executive order barring ICE agents from city property without a court order.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws, which has faced criticism for its tactics and perceived overreach.

Denver Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that has been directed to protect the rights of peaceful protesters in the city.

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What they’re saying

“We must uphold the civil liberties of all our residents, regardless of immigration status. My order ensures that ICE cannot simply barge onto city property without proper legal authority.”

— Mike Johnston, Mayor of Denver (CNN)

“This is an important step in protecting the rights of our community members and ensuring that everyone feels safe to exercise their First Amendment freedoms.”

— Erica Hill, CNN Anchor (CNN)

What’s next

The order is expected to face legal challenges from the federal government, and the outcome could set a precedent for other cities considering similar actions.

The takeaway

Mayor Johnston's move highlights the ongoing tension between local governments and federal immigration enforcement, as cities seek to balance public safety, civil liberties, and their own policies and values.