AG Kaul vows to challenge Trump admin immigration policies

 

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Attorney General Josh Kaul is vowing to challenge the incoming Trump administration's policies on immigration and attempts to restrict abortion drugs.

During an end of the year interview, Kaul said he'd take legal action against any improper mass deportation plans by President-elect Donald Trump, such as diverting federal funds to help deport thousands of undocumented migrants.

Trump did try to divert nearly $4 billion in federal aid to pay for a border wall during his first administration. Those plans resulted in a legal challenge.

"If they are violating the rights of people in Wisconsin, we're prepared to challenge that," Kaul said. "If they conduct immigration raids without appropriate protections to ensure they are detaining citizens unlawfully, again, we are prepared to act."

Kaul's remarks come as many blue states are preparing to take steps if President-elect Trump uses the military or other avenues to fund a large-scale deportation.

Earlier this month, Gov. Tony Evers downplayed Trump's pledge to carry out mass deportations due to anticipated legal challenges.

Evers also added he wouldn't deploy the Wisconsin National Guard to assist in those efforts, if asked.

Kaul said he's also prepared to protect the constitutional rights and interests of Wisconsinites as legal battles continue over reproductive rights.

If the Trump admin tries to restrict access to abortion drugs, Kaul said he'd consider legal action as well.

Currently, the state Supreme Court is weighing a case regarding the fate of Wisconsin's abortion laws. The lawsuit was brought forth by Kaul in wake of Roe v. Wade being overturned.