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DOJ Sues Maryland Over Sanctuary Community Trust Act

7/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On July 9 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice sued Maryland in federal court over the Community Trust Act.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche ordered the civil division to pinpoint state laws that hinder lawful federal operations.
Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate said the suit protects the Constitution and rule of law against irresponsible sanctuary policies.

History

Historical Context

In 2012 the Supreme Court’s 5–3 decision in Arizona v. United States struck down three of four SB 1070 provisions, holding federal law supreme over state immigration rules. Relying on that precedent, the Justice Department, now headed by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate, sued Maryland over its Community Trust Act, continuing federal challenges to sanctuary policies.

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Story summary

On July 9 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice sued Maryland in federal court over the Community Trust Act.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche ordered the civil division to pinpoint state laws that hinder lawful federal operations.
Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate said the suit protects the Constitution and rule of law against irresponsible sanctuary policies.

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