WASHINGTON — Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, wrote this week to the commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), R. Gil Kerlikowske, concerning the next border patrol chief.

“As I am sure you are aware, there have been concerning reports about a potential candidate from a sanctuary city jurisdiction,” Johnson wrote, referencing Heather Fong, former chief of police for San Francisco. “Obviously, the selection of such a candidate would send a strong message — both in the U.S. and outside — that enforcing our immigration laws is not the priority of CBP. Such an appointment would surely create another incentive for illegal migration to our country.”

The National Border Patrol Council commented, “Ms. Fong’s longstanding support of sanctuary cities makes her unqualified to hold this important position. Her appointment would demonstrate that the U.S. Border Patrol is no longer a law enforcement agency, but has become an agency designed to advance the political agenda of the administration.” 

“We thank Senator Johnson for his support and leadership on the important issue,” the council added.

The full text of the letter can be found here.