Full Breakdown
Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin's Directive on Immigration Enforcement
3/1/2026, 2:48:04 AM
Overview of the Directive
Everett, Washington, Mayor Cassie Franklin has implemented a directive aimed at limiting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities within the city. The directive, effective immediately, restricts federal immigration agents from entering non-public areas of city facilities without a judicial warrant. Franklin's initiative is a response to growing concerns among residents regarding aggressive immigration enforcement tactics, which she claims have instilled fear in the community.
Key Components of the Directive
Franklin's directive encompasses four main areas:
1. Access Restrictions: Federal immigration agents are barred from non-public areas of city facilities unless they possess a warrant. City employees are required to report any ICE activity on city property immediately.
2. Community Engagement: The directive emphasizes collaboration with community leaders and advocacy groups to support immigrant families and businesses. It also promotes "know your rights" resources and workplace protections for immigrants.
3. Internal Policy Review: An Interdepartmental Response Team will be established to ensure compliance with state law and to review and update internal policies regarding immigration enforcement.
4. Documentation and Training: The directive mandates training for city staff on privacy safeguards and protocols for documenting interactions with federal officials. It also requires police officers to activate body cameras during encounters with ICE agents.
Official Statements & Responses
In her announcement, Mayor Franklin stated, "Federal immigration enforcement is causing real fear for Everett residents... It’s been heartbreaking to see the racial profiling that’s having an impact on Everett families and businesses." She reiterated the city's commitment to serving all residents, emphasizing that the police department will not inquire about individuals' immigration status.
ICE has criticized the directive, claiming it escalates tensions and directs city law enforcement to obstruct ICE operations. They argue that such actions increase the federal presence in the community rather than reduce it. ICE stated, "If Mayor Franklin wanted to protect the people she claims to serve, she’d empower the city police with an ICE 287g partnership — instead she serves criminal illegal aliens."
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Franklin's directive have expressed concerns that it may hinder cooperation with federal authorities and potentially expose the city to legal risks. Some have accused the mayor of capitulating to anti-ICE activists, arguing that the directive could complicate law enforcement efforts and undermine public safety.
What's Next
The mayor's office plans to seek guidance from the Washington state governor and attorney general regarding coordination during large-scale ICE operations. Additionally, the city will work with local organizations to promote immigrant-owned businesses and provide resources to ensure the safety and rights of immigrant communities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’ve heard directly from residents who are afraid to leave their houses because of the concerning immigration activity happening locally and across our country.” — Cassie Franklin, Mayor of Everett
- “This is a very detailed mayoral directive,” — David Hall, Everett City Attorney
- “I also expect our officers to intervene if it's safe to do so to protect our residents when they witness federal officers using unnecessary force.” — Cassie Franklin, Mayor of Everett
The directive reflects a broader trend among local governments to assert their authority in immigration matters, prioritizing community safety and civil rights amid ongoing national debates over immigration policy.
