DOJ Civil Division Outlines New Enforcement Priorities: Denaturalization and Sanctuary Jurisdiction Crackdowns

In a recent shift signaling a more aggressive approach to immigration enforcement, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Division has announced new priorities under the Trump administration. The June 11, 2025 memorandum outlines targeted areas of focus, most notably an expansion of civil denaturalization efforts and a push to challenge state and local “sanctuary” laws.

Civil Denaturalization: A Renewed Focus

The memo places increased emphasis on identifying and pursuing cases where U.S. citizenship was allegedly obtained through fraud or misrepresentation. While the DOJ outlines specific categories of interest, it also notes that it may take action in other cases on a discretionary basis. This move reflects a broader federal effort to ensure the integrity of the naturalization process, but it also raises concerns about how far-reaching the impact could be—particularly for long-time naturalized citizens.

Legal experts are advising naturalized citizens—especially those who may have questions about how their immigration history could be interpreted—to speak with experienced immigration attorneys. This is especially important before traveling internationally or applying for a new passport, as unresolved issues could affect re-entry into the United States or lead to complications during passport renewals.

Legal Action Against Sanctuary Policies

In addition to ramping up denaturalization efforts, the Civil Division has also committed to prioritizing legal challenges against sanctuary jurisdictions. According to the memo, the DOJ will focus on “affirmative litigation” aimed at invalidating any local or state laws believed to conflict with federal immigration authority. This signals a continuation of the administration’s broader campaign to compel full cooperation from local law enforcement with federal immigration agencies.

What This Means for Immigrants

These new priorities underline the importance of maintaining accurate records, being truthful in all immigration-related matters, and seeking qualified legal counsel if there is any uncertainty. Even individuals who have already become U.S. citizens may find themselves under scrutiny if the government suspects misrepresentation at any stage in the immigration process.

For those living in areas with sanctuary policies, the legal landscape may also shift as the DOJ seeks to challenge and dismantle local laws designed to limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

As immigration policy continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive is more important than ever.