In a recent development, Republicans on the Senate Commerce Committee have launched an investigation into the city of Chicago’s housing of illegal immigrants at two airports. Led by Senator Ted Cruz, the Republicans are questioning whether the city’s sanctuary city policy violates funding requirements and is acting as an “illegal immigrant magnet.” They have written a letter to Mayor Brandon Johnson expressing their concerns.
The controversy stems from the city’s decision to house migrants at O’Hare International Airport since March and more recently at Midway International Airport. Images of hundreds of migrants camped out at O’Hare emerged last year, as the city struggled to cope with an influx of tens of thousands of migrants since mid-2022.
The Republicans argue that repurposing airport facilities to house illegal aliens not only undermines taxpayers’ investment in the national airport system but also violates the requirement that federally-funded airport facilities be available to the public. They emphasize that airports should not be defined as facilities that house illegal aliens.
The letter also criticizes Chicago’s status as a sanctuary city, highlighting the city’s opposition to Governor Greg Abbott’s busing of migrants from Texas. The Republicans accuse Chicago of avoiding its responsibilities by not accepting migrants and demand that the city stops flouting federal law.
Additionally, the lawmakers raise concerns about a dispute between the city and United Airlines and American Airlines over a new terminal at O’Hare. They question whether the city is attempting to extract more money from the airlines to offset the costs of being a sanctuary city.
The Republicans seek answers regarding the number of migrants being housed at the airports, related costs, safety hazards, federal waivers received, and consultation with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on aviation safety and security matters.
In response to the investigation, Mayor Brandon Johnson has highlighted his administration’s efforts to provide housing, healthcare, and schooling for the migrants. However, he has appealed for additional federal assistance. Johnson is part of a coalition of mayors calling for over $5 billion in financial aid from the federal government.
The Republicans urge Johnson to advocate for border and transportation security and enforce immigration laws instead of burdening border communities alone. They also encourage him to reconsider the city’s sanctuary city policy, which they deem a magnet for illegal immigrants.
The article concludes with information about Adam Shaw, a politics reporter for FOX Business who covers immigration and border security. Readers are invited to subscribe to get the latest updates on the 2024 campaign trail and exclusive interviews.
