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Charles Marino on Newsmax dropped a line that should make every conservative in Texas sit up: “Texas now should be considered a sanctuary state going forward,” he said. Marino, a national‑security contributor and former DHS adviser, was reacting to a string of local orders and a post‑election tilt in state politics that is already changing how city police talk to ICE. If you care about border enforcement, ICE cooperation, or basic public safety, this is worth watching — and debating loudly.
Why Marino Calls Texas a “Sanctuary State”
Houston’s executive order is the spark
The practical change Marino pointed to isn’t a single law. It’s local leaders changing police policy. Mayor John Whitmire of Houston issued an order narrowing when Houston Police Department notifies ICE — saying HPD will tell ICE only for jailable offenses. Whitmire even said, in so many words, that “elections matter.” Put that together with other big cities tweaking their ICE rules and you have the kind of on‑the‑ground shift that looks, feels and acts like a sanctuary policy to people who watch enforcement every day.
Local Rules Versus State Law — Don’t Ignore the Details
Before anyone runs to declare Texas legally a sanctuary state, remember there are real limits. Texas has passed anti‑sanctuary statutes and the state Senate remains a roadblock to sweeping change. Courts also weigh in when state and local rules collide. Still, laws on paper don’t always match what happens on the street. When mayors and police chiefs decide they won’t routinely hand people over to ICE, the federal pocketbook and federal plans get strained even if state law hasn’t been rewritten.
Federal Reaction and Border Enforcement Risks
This is where national security and practical enforcement meet. If big Texas cities stop routine cooperation with ICE, Department of Homeland Security officials — under Secretary Markwayne Mullin — and ICE will have to shift resources, change tactics, or lean harder on state programs like Operation Lone Star. That’s a costly and messy pivot. Conservatives should demand to know whether federal agencies will be allowed to do their jobs, and whether state and local leaders will be judged on real crime and recidivism numbers, not political theater.
What Conservatives Should Watch Next
Keep an eye on city orders, the incoming Governor‑elect Gina Hinojosa’s transition moves, and how Texas’ law enforcement leaders respond. Ask for data: how many ICE detainers were honored before, and how many will be honored now? Demand answers from local officials who claim “healing” while changing enforcement. If Texas drifts toward de facto sanctuary by practice, not by statute, conservatives must make the case in plain language: border order, public safety, and rule of law matter more than political grandstanding. And if you want a silver lining, at least this debate will flush out who’s serious about enforcement — and who just likes the sound of being “compassionate” on TV.
