Hochul Opposes Local Police Involvement in ICE Operations

New York governor criticizes Johnson City village board's rejection of resolution to limit police cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 10:07pm

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New York Governor Kathy Hochul visited Binghamton on Wednesday to speak out against local police involvement in ICE operations. Her comments come a day after the Johnson City village board rejected a resolution to limit local police cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

Why it matters

Hochul's stance reflects a broader debate over the role of local law enforcement in federal immigration enforcement efforts. Proponents argue local police should focus on community policing, while critics say local cooperation is needed to uphold immigration laws.

The details

During her visit, Hochul said she wants local police to focus on their core duties and not handle federal operations. She noted that ICE has an $85 billion budget and does not need additional help for "unnecessary actions."

  • Hochul visited Binghamton on Wednesday, February 5, 2026.
  • The Johnson City village board rejected a resolution to limit local police involvement with ICE the day prior, on Tuesday, February 4, 2026.

The players

Kathy Hochul

The current Governor of New York.

Johnson City Village Board

The local governing body that rejected a resolution to limit police cooperation with ICE.

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What they’re saying

“I want our local cops doing their jobs and not having to handle federal operations.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York

The takeaway

Hochul's stance highlights the ongoing debate over the appropriate role of local law enforcement in federal immigration enforcement, with proponents arguing for a focus on community policing and critics calling for greater cooperation to uphold immigration laws.