WARWICK, RI - Rhode Island Republican Party Chairman Joe Powers issued a strong rebuke today against a letter circulated to all 39 cities and towns in Rhode Island, encouraging local governments to openly defy federal immigration law. Powers condemned the initiative as reckless, dangerous, and a direct violation of officials’ sworn duty to uphold the U.S. Constitution.

“Defying federal law is not only irresponsible-it is illegal,” said Chairman Joe Powers. “Elected officials who take an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution cannot simply ignore the laws they find politically inconvenient. This blatant disregard for the rule of law puts Rhode Islanders at risk and should be met with immediate legal consequences.”

The letter, which calls on municipalities to reject cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal immigration enforcement efforts, represents an attempt to shield individuals-including criminals-from lawful deportation proceedings. Powers asserted that such actions endanger public safety, undermine law enforcement, and send a dangerous message that local leaders can pick and choose which laws to follow.

“This is not about politics; this is about public safety,” Powers continued. “By refusing to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, these officials are actively harboring criminals, allowing them to remain in our communities, and jeopardizing the safety of law-abiding Rhode Islanders. This is reckless, it is dangerous, and it must not be tolerated.”

Powers called for the immediate removal and prosecution of any official who actively works to defy federal immigration laws. “Public officials who knowingly obstruct federal law should be held accountable to the fullest extent. They are not above the law, and their refusal to enforce it should result in their removal from office.”

The Rhode Island Republican Party stands firmly behind law enforcement and the enforcement of all immigration laws as written. Powers reaffirmed his commitment to supporting policies that prioritize the safety and security of Rhode Islanders.

“We cannot allow political activism to take precedence over the safety and well-being of our citizens,” Powers concluded. “Every elected official who participates in this lawless defiance should be removed and prosecuted. Rhode Islanders deserve leaders who will uphold their oath, not betray it.”