New York City is facing backlash after nearly 2,000 migrants were temporarily housed in a high school, leading to students being forced into remote learning. Republican Representative Elise Stefanik, who chairs the House Republican Conference, criticized the move, attributing it to “far-left” sanctuary policies. The migrants were moved from a tent shelter at Floyd Bennett Field due to safety concerns related to storms and high winds. While New York City Mayor Eric Adams defended the decision as a precautionary measure, it has sparked outrage among politicians, parents, and Stefanik.
Stefanik condemned the displacement of New York students to accommodate illegal immigrants, blaming the situation on President Joe Biden and the Democrats’ sanctuary state policies. She called for an end to these policies, stating that they prioritize the needs of illegal immigrants over the well-being of American children. Many parents of students at James Madison High School, where the migrants were temporarily housed, expressed frustration and anger over the disruption caused to their children’s education.
The move has drawn criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, highlighting the divisive nature of the issue. NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, a Democrat, criticized the mismanagement and wasteful spending associated with the city’s approach to shelter and services for asylum seekers. This incident is part of a larger migrant crisis that has overwhelmed New York City, with over 160,000 migrant arrivals since mid-2022. The situation reflects the broader challenges faced at the border, with more than 2.4 million encounters in FY 23 and over 302,000 in December alone.
Mayor Adams has blamed the state of Texas, particularly Governor Greg Abbott, for transporting migrants to “sanctuary” cities since 2022. He has also criticized the federal government for alleged inaction and called on the Biden administration to provide more funding, expedite work permit processing, and assist with resettlement efforts. Meanwhile, New York City has faced budget cuts in areas such as education and policing.
In response to the controversy, Mayor Adams has initiated a lawsuit against bus companies from Texas involved in transporting migrants and imposed restrictions on their arrival. The situation underscores the ongoing debate surrounding immigration and border security in the United States.
Adam Shaw, a politics reporter for Digital, primarily covering immigration and border security, contributed to this article. For more updates on the 2024 campaign trail and exclusive interviews, subscribe to the newsletter.
