Federal Immigration Sweep to Expand in North Carolina Amid Controversy

Tue Nov 18 2025 11:28:28 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Immigration authorities are set to extend enforcement actions to Raleigh after a large operation in Charlotte resulted in over 130 arrests. The mayor and local leaders express concerns over public safety and civil rights.

Following an extensive immigration crackdown in Charlotte resulting in the arrests of over 130 individuals, U.S. immigration agents are now preparing to expand their operations to Raleigh, North Carolina. The move has incited political backlash and raised public safety concerns among city officials. Mayor Janet Cowell has called for respect and calm amidst the enforcement operations, linking the heightened focus on North Carolina to its sanctuary policies. This crackdown follows a trend seen in other major cities under the Trump administration, where partisan politics and local governance clash over immigration enforcement.

In a controversial move, federal immigration authorities are set to expand their crackdowns in North Carolina, adding Raleigh as a target starting Tuesday. The decision follows a significant operation in Charlotte, where over 130 arrests were made over the weekend, according to federal officials. Mayor Janet Cowell of Raleigh stated that the specifics of the forthcoming operation remain unclear, but stress the priority of public safety in light of diminished crime rates in her city.

As tensions rise, Cowell urged residents to uphold their values of respect and peace during this challenging time. Charlotte, with a predominantly Democratic leadership, expresses growing concern regarding the impact of these federal actions enforced through Customs and Border Protection. The increased presence of immigration agents comes after the White House's decision to intensify crackdowns in other dense blue cities like Los Angeles and Chicago, indicating a politically strategic approach to enforcement.

Local leaders and community activists have voiced alarm over the tactics used during these operations, stating there are increased reports of immigration agents engaging with citizens in sensitive locations such as churches and supermarkets. Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security, Tricia McLaughlin, defended the operations as a necessary measure against individuals who are in defiance of immigration laws.

This shift towards stringent enforcement in North Carolina aims to target so-called sanctuary policies that have limited local cooperation with federal agencies. Yet, experts suggest the choice of North Carolina as a focus may relate to the less aggressive political landscape, making the enforcement appear less pressured than in other states.

As the debate continues, many question the appropriateness of such operations in light of public sentiment and the potential to increase community division, with city officials vowing to support residents facing anxiety during this time.