Newly sworn-in Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat, has rescinded a directive issued by her Republican predecessor, Glenn Youngkin, that required state and local law enforcement to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In her order, Spanberger argued that immigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility and said Virginia law enforcement should keep its focus on state and local priorities. “Federal authorities should enforce federal civil immigration laws—law enforcement in the Commonwealth should prioritize the safety and security of all residents in Virginia, the enforcement of local and state laws, and coordination with federal entities on criminal matters,” the order states.
Why It Matters
The nation has become increasingly divided over immigration operations carried out by the Trump administration through ICE, with tensions heightened after the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
Across the country, Democratic governors have explored ways to limit how much local agencies assist ICE—often by clarifying that local law enforcement is not required to participate in federal civil immigration enforcement. Republican governors and lawmakers, meanwhile, have argued that ICE is acting under lawful authority and that state and local agencies should cooperate.
What to Know
Spanberger, the first woman to serve as governor of Virginia, was sworn into office on Saturday after defeating Republican candidate Winsome Earle-Sears, who had backing from President Donald Trump.
Soon after her inauguration, Spanberger signed Executive Order No. 10 (2026), rescinding directives contained in Youngkin’s Executive Order No. 47 (2025). Those earlier directives, Spanberger’s order says, required and encouraged state and local law enforcement to “divert their limited resources for use in enforcing federal civil immigration laws.”
“Accordingly, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor under Article V of the Constitution of Virginia and under the laws of the Commonwealth, I hereby rescind Executive Order No. 47 (2025), which is not an appropriate use of state or local resources,” Spanberger wrote.
The order took effect immediately upon signing. It was signed by Spanberger and Secretary of the Commonwealth Jennifer B. Moon.
What People Are Saying
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, at her inauguration: “As we write this next chapter, we will focus on the security and safety of all our neighbors. We we will take action to prevent gun violence, to support Virginians struggling with addiction, and to address the mental health crisis impacting our kids and our neighbors. And in Virginia, our hard working, law abiding immigrant neighbors will know that when we say that we will focus on the security and safety of all of our neighbors, we mean them too.”
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, on X: “CNN found there were more ICE impersonation incidents in 2025 than the prior 4 presidential terms combined. It’s not hard to see why. I requested a bill establishing that if you’re not a law enforcement officer, you can’t be wearing something that gives the impression you are.”
U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, on Friday: “When the Governor or the Mayor threaten our officers, when the Mayor suggests that he’s encouraging citizens to call 911 when they see ICE officers, that is very close to a federal crime,” adding, “If you impede the work we’re doing… We’re coming after you.”
