Rep. Andy Ogles, a Republican from Tennessee, has launched a formal inquiry into Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s alleged support for illegal immigration, accusing him of aiding and abetting illegal immigrants through ICE policy changes. The request comes as part of a broader conservative push against city officials accused of obstructing federal immigration enforcement. Ogles is seeking documents related to the amendment of Executive Order 30, which requires Nashville employees and first responders to report interactions with federal immigration authorities to the mayor. This directive, he claims, undermines federal enforcement efforts by creating a system of local oversight that could enable the protection of undocumented individuals.
Ogles has also demanded internal communications about ICE operations in Nashville and Davidson County, as well as any correspondence between Metro employees and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in the arrests or detentions of illegal immigrants. The demands are framed as a necessary step to ensure compliance with federal law and to investigate whether municipal resources have been used in criminal activities related to immigration. Ogles’ allegations are part of a larger pattern of conservative criticism of so-called “sanctuary city” policies, with the Trump administration previously accusing O’Connell of supporting “pro-illegal” policies. While O’Connell has maintained that his actions are focused on public safety and that the city’s police department has no authority over immigration enforcement, his office has not responded to recent inquiries from Fox News Digital.
The situation has intensified following ICE raids in Middle Tennessee, which resulted in the arrest of nearly 200 individuals, many of whom were linked to organized crime or had criminal histories. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has specifically named O’Connell in its criticism of the enforcement actions, alleging that his remarks in early May downplayed the threat posed by some of those detained. O’Connell, however, has insisted that his role is limited to protecting the city’s residents and that the police department is unprepared for immigration enforcement tasks. Meanwhile, DHS has praised the arrests, highlighting the apprehension of several dangerous individuals, including a convicted child sex predator and members of the Tren de Aragua gang.
Ogles’ call for an investigation into O’Connell’s conduct has drawn a sharp response from local officials, who argue that the city’s approach is consistent with broader legal protections against federal overreach. The dispute reflects a deepening divide in U.S. politics over immigration policy, with conservatives emphasizing the importance of enforcing federal immigration laws and liberals advocating for local control and the rights of undocumented individuals. As the case unfolds, it is likely to remain a focal point for debates over law enforcement, public safety, and the balance of power between federal and local authorities.