Governor Abbott Migrant Moves Spark Urban Uproar: Greg Abbott, Texas governor, has been moving people from the US southern border to cities like New York, Washington, and Chicago for over a year. Democratic leaders in big cities are upset due to the perceived high number of homeless and poor people.
Abbott blamed President Biden for the situation in New York, calling him the “leading importer of migrants.” Abbott initiated busing to aid Texas border towns struggling with border crossings.
During the crisis, Texas has taken challenging steps, such as using razor wire and flags in the Rio Grande as a “floating border wall.” The state has made it easier for migrants to reach big cities like New York. Abbott stated that over 15,800 refugees have relocated to NYC since spring 2022, with nearly 42,000 receiving bus tickets for new lives abroad.
NYC Mayor Eric Adams criticized Abbott for using immigrants as “political pawns”. They expressed dissatisfaction with insufficient federal assistance during the surge. Despite White House assistance, the city required additional aid.
Texas isn’t the only affected state due to migrant influx. Cities like San Diego are struggling with the humanitarian situation and are seeking more federal assistance.
Amidst the crisis, the International Organization for Migration urged Mexico and Central America to address the high volume of migrants passing through the region and seek lasting solutions to the root causes of migration.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Why is Texas sending migrants to Chicago?
Texas transports more than 120 immigrants to Chicago as part of Governor Greg Abbott’s plan to increase bus services. The flight follows reports of Chicago authorities tightening regulations on buses carrying immigrants from Texas. In the past year, Texas has transported more than 80,000 immigrants to cities led by the Democratic party across the United States.
What is the new Texas immigration law?
It will be illegal to cross the Texas-Mexico border between entry points. This new law will make it a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail. If caught more than once, it could become a second-degree felony, with a punishment of two to 20 years in prison.
Where are the migrants coming from in Chicago?
Most asylum seekers hail from Venezuela, but diverse individuals and families arrive from across the globe, spanning Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.