U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi Issues Federal Warning to California Over Immigration Policies

In August 2025, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a stern warning to California, threatening criminal prosecution for state and local officials who obstruct federal immigration enforcement. This move reignited tensions between the federal government and California's sanctuary policies, prompting a strong rebuke from Governor Gavin Newsom's office. The warning signaled a renewed federal push to enforce immigration laws across states with differing local policies.

Bondi's letter, disseminated to various states and cities including California, explicitly threatened legal action against officials using their positions to "obstruct federal immigration efforts and facilitat[e] and induc[e] illegal immigration." Political commentator Dinesh D'Souza characterized the situation on social media, stating, "> Frustrated Pam Bondi puts Gavin Newsom on notice and he panics - she warned him!"

Governor Newsom's office swiftly responded by reminding Attorney General Bondi of the ethical obligations for U.S. Department of Justice lawyers. They emphasized that California's Rules of Professional Conduct generally prohibit lawyers from pursuing claims without probable cause or for harassment, suggesting that prosecuting conduct previously upheld by courts could violate these ethics. This response highlighted California's defense of its legal framework.

The state further underscored that its laws have been consistently upheld by courts, including a 2019 Ninth Circuit ruling in United States v. California. This decision affirmed the state's right, under the Tenth Amendment, to decline federal policies under state law or with its own resources, reinforcing California's stance against federal overreach. The ruling established a significant legal precedent in the ongoing federal-state debate.

This federal warning is part of an ongoing contentious relationship between Bondi and Newsom, marked by frequent political clashes. More recently, in October 2025, Governor Newsom publicly criticized Bondi, labeling her "Pedophile-protector Pam" after her testimony regarding Jeffrey Epstein's files, further underscoring the deep political divide and continued friction between the two figures.

The standoff underscores persistent federal-state conflicts over immigration enforcement and highlights California's commitment to its sovereignty and established legal frameworks. The state continues to defend its right to implement policies that align with its values, even in the face of federal pressure and potential legal challenges.