The mayor of MD is facing criticism for using a "legal advocacy fund" to counter the Trump-Homan agenda.

The mayor of Maryland's second-largest city sparked controversy after revealing his plan to create a taxpayer-funded "legal advocacy fund" to safeguard immigrants from policies enacted by the new Trump administration.

Mayor Michael O'Connor, a Democrat, emphasized the importance of legal support for immigrants in his appropriation request, stating that President-elect Trump's first term would set the tone for how he would treat immigrants. He drew parallels to his own ancestors' arrival from Ireland and the need for immigrants to have the legal support they need to thrive in their new community.

O'Connor, whose city of 86,000 is halfway between Washington, D.C. and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, stated that in many ways, this election did not meet his expectations.

Our city council has recently granted voting rights to any resident who calls Frederick home, regardless of citizenship status. We will continue to work towards implementing this decision as it is our responsibility and we will not take any action that could cause division, target vulnerable populations, or undermine the trust we have built in our community, as stated by O'Connor.

The chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee condemned the move, stating that O'Connor's "commitment to safeguarding illegal aliens is particularly abhorrent." He emphasized the case of Walter Javier Martinez, an MS-13 gang member who was given a 70-year sentence for the rape, strangulation, and murder of Kayla Hamilton, an autistic young woman in Harford County. Martinez, who was 17 at the time, had been released to a "sponsor" in Frederick before committing the crime. He pleaded guilty to Hamilton's murder in August.

It is the responsibility of public officials at all levels of government to safeguard their citizens.

"I am confident that the incoming Trump administration will disabuse state and local leaders of the belief that they are exempt from federal immigration law."

Sheriff Chuck Jenkins of Frederick County stated that O'Connor's plan was "completely unsuitable."

Jenkins stated in a Monday interview that he believes the move will enrage taxpayers and is also unjust to them.

There are enough private or non-profit advocacy groups that would cover legal fees and other expenses for migrants facing federal action.

Jenkins, who heads the department responsible for enforcing laws outside Frederick city limits, predicts that the move will lead to an increase in criminal activity in the area due to the "false perception" that they will be protected.

"He will not allow the Frederick Police Department to collaborate with ICE."

Jenkins commended incoming "border czar" Tom Homan, stating that he doesn't require Frederick city's approval to execute federal operations.

He acknowledged that local and county agencies lack the authority to enforce immigration law, but emphasized his unwavering support for Trump's and Homan's overall policy proposals.

"I am 100% supportive of any actions that will keep my county and its citizens safe, reduce crime, eliminate the criminal element, and clean up our country."

O'Connor mentioned in his recent comments that Vice President Harris' concession speech, where she emphasized the need for organization, energy, and engagement, inspired him. He added that Frederick would further emphasize the importance of upholding the city's values in this context.

O'Connor was contacted by Planet Chronicle Digital for additional comment. Notably, he hosts both the presidential Camp David retreat in the nearby Catoctin Mountains and the U.S. biological defense headquarters at Fort Detrick.

In his public statements, O'Connor asserted that his message was not political but rather patriotic.

"Although we cannot anticipate every policy or action this administration may implement, we have observed enough to determine our course of action in Frederick. We remain committed to maintaining a city where all individuals feel secure, valued, and safeguarded."

The Frederick Police Department, distinct from Jenkins' agency, is dedicated to guaranteeing that all residents feel secure in reporting crimes and are aware that they will not be probed about their immigration status.

The mayor stated that our community will not assist outside agencies in capturing, expelling, or relocating any of its residents.

The FPD pledged to establish trust and keep open communication channels with all members of the community.

"The Frederick Police Department has not been responsible for enforcing immigration laws, as it has primarily focused on traffic and criminal laws for many years. Instead, federal agencies are responsible for immigration enforcement."

The police department stated that they do not inquire about immigration status from individuals seeking assistance or reporting crimes, and they want all residents of Frederick to feel safe during their interactions with law enforcement.

In Anne Arundel County, which encompasses Annapolis, Democratic County Executive Steuart Pittman proposed comparable defenses to O'Connor's for immigrants facing deportation. According to FOXBaltimore, Pittman stated that Anne Arundel will offer support to the families of deported breadwinners.

Gov. Wes Moore stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that the U.S. immigration system is flawed and Congress needs to address it.

He emphasized the need for federal leaders to put aside politics and focus on securing our border and establishing a fair and compassionate immigration system, as he comes from an immigrant family and is deeply connected to the immigrant community's contributions.

Moore addressed "speculation" about how Trump will address immigration policy:

"As a governor, it is my duty to safeguard Marylanders, including our immigrant population. I take this responsibility seriously and will monitor the actions of the new administration."

The Homeland Security Committee chairman candidate, Rand Paul, and the listed contact for the new Democratic representative, April McClain-Delaney, were contacted by Planet Chronicle Digital.