Soros-backed Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner is facing backlash from the White House after warning that federal immigration agents could face arrest if they violate local laws while operating in the city.
Speaking at Philadelphia International Airport, Krasner said his office would prosecute any federal agent who commits crimes within his jurisdiction — and argued that even a presidential pardon would not prevent local charges.
“My job is to enforce the law,” Krasner said. “You commit crimes within the jurisdiction that is the city and county of Philadelphia, I prosecute you.”
Krasner also warned that federal agents should not assume immunity from local enforcement, saying they could face arrest and jail if they break the law while operating in the city.
My message to ICE agents deployed at PHL Airport: Don’t break the law, or you’re going to find out. pic.twitter.com/92gfxdl6aI
— Larry Krasner (@LarryKrasnerDA) March 25, 2026
The remarks came days after the Trump administration deployed Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel to assist at airports amid long security lines tied to the ongoing Department of Homeland Security funding lapse.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt sharply criticized Krasner’s comments Wednesday, calling them “disgraceful.”
“He’s talking to ICE agents who are handing out water bottles and helping people move through lines at airports,” Leavitt said, defending the federal presence.
.@PressSec: "He's talking to the ICE agents who are handing out water bottles and are helping people move through lines at airports? It's a disgraceful comment." https://t.co/BPhkqOrIEz pic.twitter.com/FazQq5OBqd
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 25, 2026