Justice Department Sues Four States Over Undercover License Plates for Federal Agents

The Trump administration has filed lawsuits against Maine, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Washington state, alleging that their refusal to issue undercover license plates to federal agents is unconstitutional and obstructs immigration enforcement. The Department of Justice (DOJ) argues that these states are discriminating against federal law enforcement by denying confidential plates to agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while providing them to state and local authorities.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that such policies "undermine federal immigration enforcement, allow dangerous criminals to escape justice, and terrorize American communities." The lawsuits, filed Wednesday in U.S. district courts in each state, claim that the states are violating the Supremacy Clause of the U.S.

Constitution, which bars states from regulating federal law enforcement. The administration contends that easily identifiable federal agents face increased harassment and physical danger when investigating violent criminals, including cartel members and sex offenders.

In response, Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey defended the state's policy, arguing it is a legitimate constitutional choice to prevent federal resources from being used for civil immigration enforcement that has led to "abusive and unconstitutional conduct." Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows paused confidential license plates in January, stating, "We don’t have secret police in a democracy." The DOJ's argument mirrors its defense of federal agents wearing masks, a practice that sparked controversy after masked agents killed two protesters in Minnesota. The administration has already won a court order blocking a California law that barred law enforcement from covering their faces.

The lawsuits are part of a broader conflict between the White House and Democratic-led states over immigration policies, including sanctuary cities that limit cooperation with federal authorities.