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DHS Secretary Mullin Floats Pulling Customs Agents from SFO

newsApr 7, 2026110

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin floated withdrawing U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers from international airports in sanctuary cities, naming San Francisco as an example. He made the suggestion during a Fox News interview, framing the step as leverage to punish cities that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. Removing CBP officers would prevent normal processing of international arrivals, effectively halting or crippling international flights and commerce at targeted airports. The proposal escalates a federal-local clash, raises legal and logistical questions, and threatens major economic disruption for large metropolitan centers.

Key Highlights

DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin floated removing CBP officers from airports in sanctuary cities.
He specifically cited possible withdrawal at San Francisco International Airport, threatening international travel.
Administration frames move as punishment for sanctuary policies, risking major economic and legal fallout.
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