Denver Mayor Signs Order to Restrict Federal Immigration Agents

New executive order bans ICE from using city property and limits data sharing with federal agencies.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has signed an executive order designed to restrict the activities of federal immigration agents in the city. The order bans ICE agents from using city property and bars city agencies from sharing databases or technology with the Department of Homeland Security or its immigration partners without a subpoena, judicial warrant or court order. Sensitive locations like schools, churches, and hospitals will remain off-limits to ICE.

Why it matters

The order is aimed at providing clarity and protection for Denver residents, regardless of their immigration status. It comes amid ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement efforts.

The details

The executive order emphasizes that first responders will provide aid to anyone injured, regardless of the offender, and that ICE officers using excessive force or committing crimes will be held accountable. Denver City Council President Amanda P. Sandoval said the order is designed "to protect the residents of Denver and create clarity for something that is already going on in Denver."

  • On February 27, 2026, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston signed the executive order.

The players

Mike Johnston

The mayor of Denver who signed the executive order restricting federal immigration agents' activities in the city.

Amanda P. Sandoval

The Denver City Council President who spoke in support of the executive order.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency whose activities are restricted by the executive order.

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What they’re saying

“Our goal was this was a ability to provide clarity to Denver residents, to know how they can and should engage. Our goal is not to provoke anyone but to protect the residents that are here and we think that does that in a way that is both clear and responsible.”

— Mike Johnston, Mayor of Denver (CBS Colorado)

“I just think that ... the table needs to be set because I've already experienced this in my council district. I know my colleagues have.”

— Amanda P. Sandoval, Denver City Council President (CBS Colorado)

What’s next

The Denver City Council is expected to take further actions to support the mayor's executive order and outline the city's plans for protecting all residents, regardless of immigration status.

The takeaway

This executive order reflects the ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement, as cities seek to balance public safety and the rights of immigrant residents. The order aims to provide clarity and protection for Denver's diverse community.