Connecticut officials vow to defend Trust Act after DOJ sues over immigration policies

The joint statements were released through the attorney general's office after the DOJ filed suit targeting the state law. The press release did not describe the Trust Act's provisions, include a copy of the federal complaint or identify the court in which it was filed.

"The sovereign people of Connecticut have exercised our right to pass state laws like the Trust Act that prioritize public safety and ensure that all people can trust and rely on law enforcement to keep us safe," Tong said.

Tong rejected the characterization of Connecticut as a sanctuary state. "Connecticut is not a 'sanctuary' state, whatever that means," he said. "This term is meaningless and has no basis in Connecticut law. We will defend Connecticut and Connecticut families and fight this lawless attack with every fiber of our being."

Lamont said the state's policies are consistent with the Constitution and reflect the division of authority between state and federal governments. "Our laws do not prevent federal authorities from enforcing immigration law," the governor said. "Rather, they reflect a longstanding principle: the federal government cannot require states to use their personnel or resources to carry out federal enforcement responsibilities."

The governor said Connecticut law enforcement "prioritizes serious criminal activity" while "respecting constitutional protections afforded to residents and maintaining trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve."

Elicker defended New Haven's Welcoming City executive order, which he said is "compliant with all local, state and federal law." He said the city's policy ensures "all New Haveners feel safe calling the police, seeking medical care, sending their kids to school, and accessing other critical public services."

"If any individual commits a violent crime in New Haven, we're committed to arresting them and bringing them to justice, regardless of their immigration status," Elicker said. He said the DOJ's lawsuit "contains inaccuracies and untruths about New Haven's Welcoming City executive order."