The news that North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has vetoed legislation that would subvert local law enforcement’s authority and force local sheriffs to act as ICE deportation agents is a positive step for pragmatic policymaking and common-sense.
As Governor Cooper rightfully noted in a message accompanying his veto, “This legislation is simply about scoring partisan political points and using fear to divide North Carolina. This bill, in addition to being unconstitutional, weakens law enforcement in North Carolina by mandating sheriffs to do the job of federal agents.”
The following is a statement from Douglas Rivlin, Director of Communications for America’s Voice:
Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of the Republicans’ transparent attempt at political divisiveness and immigrant fear-mongering is a victory for sensible policymaking and unifying rather than dividing Americans. At a time when voters in North Carolina and across the country want real solutions instead of manufactured fear-mongering, the veto is a meaningful step forward.
These very related issues were important areas of focus during the 2018 elections in North Carolina – and voters elected local sheriffs who were more invested in keeping their communities safe rather than acting as de facto arms of ICE. The Republican state legislatures’ attempt to subvert and undermine the will of the people was brazen and, thankfully, not successful.
The veto is a testament to Governor Cooper’s leadership and a reflection of the efforts of many organizations and leaders on the ground, including multiple North Carolina Sheriffs, El Pueblo, the ACLU of North Carolina, a range of business leaders and a broad coalition of allies and organizations across the state.”
