Former Mexico President Vicente Fox praises Denver’s new immigration ordinance

DENVER – Former Mexico President Vicente Fox kicked off his first day in Denver Tuesday by praising the city’s decision made Monday to bolster protections for immigrants in the city.

Fox is in town for talks regarding the economy between Colorado and Mexico.

In a news conference that also included Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, Fox praised the measure passed Monday by the city council, which Hancock defended in the face of opposition from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials.

“The reality is if people feel safer calling the police, if they feel safer reporting crimes—whether they’re victims or witnesses—we’re all better off,” Hancock said.

Fox echoed those sentiments.

“My first surprise is that great news [of the new city measure]—that this city is taking some steps to make sure that rule of law in this city is applied fairly, without discrimination,” Fox said.

Councilwoman Robin Kniech, who was one of the councilors pushing the immigration measure, told Denver7 Tuesday she’s not afraid the city will lose federal funding, as the Trump administration has threatened, saying she believes federal law is on the city’s side.

Mayor Hancock is expected to sign the new ordinance into law later this week.

Fox was expected to join Gov. John Hickenlooper, Hancock, and Aurora’s mayor at a private dinner Tuesday evening at the Governor’s Mansion.

Fox will be in town for Wednesday afternoon’s trade forum, which is open to the public, though tickets are required. More information can be found here.