San Diego County’s “Super” Sanctuary Creates Division in CA
December 13, 2024Key Takeaways
- Americans are torn between San Diego County sanctuary policies and the Sheriff’s refusal to enforce them.
- Even among Californians, a majority of voters are skeptical or outright opposed to San Diego County’s new “super” sanctuary status.
- Though most voters want a strong border and stricter enforcement, a slight majority oppose the county sheriff refusing to uphold sanctuary policies.
Our Methodology
Demographics
All Voters
Sample Size
21,000
Geographical Breakdown
National
Time Period
7 Days
MIG Reports leverages EyesOver technology, employing Advanced AI for precise analysis. This ensures unparalleled precision, setting a new standard. Find out more about the unique data pull for this article.
San Diego County is making news and stirring online discussion about national and state immigration policies. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted to pursue “super” sanctuary city status by protecting them from deportation. Subsequently, the County Sheriff vowed not to comply with new super sanctuary rules. This tug-of-war between voters, Trump’s anticipated border security and immigration policies, county governors, and county law enforcement is a microcosm of America’s battle over the border.
BREAKING: The San Diego County Board of Supervisors just voted 3-1 to turn the county into a "super" sanctuary county by shielding illegals from deportation and preventing police from notifying ICE about dangerous illegals in custody.pic.twitter.com/ApINL5CtRy
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) December 11, 2024
What Voters are Saying
MIG Reports data shows:
- 68% of voters nationally oppose sanctuary city status.
- 58% of Californians are skeptical of super sanctuary status, but not vocally opposed.
- 45% approve of the sheriff’s decision not to enforce, viewing it as necessary for community safety.
- 55% criticize local law enforcement, arguing county police are undermining humanitarian commitments.
Despite significant negativity both nationally and among Californians on super sanctuary status, a slight majority also oppose the sheriff’s actions. This suggests Americans are torn between protecting the border and the turmoil caused by community leaders working against each other.
The Sanctuary City Proposal
San Diego’s sanctuary designation aligns with California's progressive stance on immigration, aiming to protect illegal immigrants from Trump’s incoming federal enforcement, including promises of mass deportations.
Supporters view protecting migrants as a moral imperative, reflecting American ideals of compassion and inclusivity. Critics say San Diego is prioritizing illegals and criminals over residents, enabling crime and straining public resources.
In California, the state’s historic support for sanctuary policies contrasts with growing frustrations among moderates and conservatives. The right sees these policies as emblematic of a state out of touch with local safety concerns. In addition, more Californians are expressing objections, with 58% skeptical or critical of the Board of Supervisors’ decision.
Law Versus Compassion
San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez’s refusal to comply with super sanctuary rules has ignited intense debate. Many conservatives praise her as a defender of public safety, with 70% in this group approving her stance. Critics, however, view the refusal as an abdication of responsibility to protect immigrant communities. Among overall voters, 55% disapprove of the sheriff’s decision.
Many voters say that, while law enforcement prioritizes crime prevention, disregarding policies undermines trust between the community and local authorities. Despite sharp divisions in policy stances and ideology, Americans want leaders, politicians, and law enforcement to work together.
NEW: San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez announces she will not adhere to the "super sanctuary" policy approved by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors today, pointing out that she is an independently elected official, the Board does not set policy for her office, and… pic.twitter.com/NigwuElztR
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) December 11, 2024
Broader National Implications
San Diego County’s situation mirrors the national struggle between federal immigration mandates and local governance. The Biden administration’s policies, viewed by many conservatives as lax, have intensified calls for stricter enforcement at the state and local levels. Voters express frustration with a lack of coherent strategy, linking the influx of migrants to increased crime and economic strain.
The sheriff’s refusal to follow sanctuary policies represents a growing anti-establishment sentiment, particularly among Trump voters who view local leaders as out of step with the American people. Nationally, sanctuary city policies remain a wedge issue.
Key Themes in the Discussion
Crime and Public Safety
- Many fear sanctuary policies will attract more migrants with criminal backgrounds.
- Progressives highlight improving trust between law enforcement and immigrants already in the country.
Resource Allocation
- Critics say sanctuary cities strain local budgets, diverting resources from citizens.
- Supporters say immigrants contribute positively to communities and economies.
Federal-State Conflicts
- The tension between federal immigration enforcement and local discretion is highly contentious.
- Conservative voters increasingly advocate for local resistance to perceived federal overreach.
- Progressives decry noncompliance with sanctuary policies by law-and-order advocates.
Projections for 2025
With the incoming Trump 2.0 administration, immigration debates like San Diego’s will intensify. Sanctuary city policies will likely become a friction point between a progressive minority in Congress and energize conservative voters who want strong action from Trump.
In battleground states where safety and sovereignty resonate deeply, discussions will likely escalate. In border states like California with notoriously progressive policies, legal battles may be on the horizon—as Gavin Newsom has promised.