Mayor Eric Adams expressed his desire for the federal government to address the influx of illegal immigrants in New York City. He mentioned that the city currently accommodates 220,000 illegal immigrants and has not received significant support from the federal government. Adams emphasized the need for the federal government to solve what he referred to as a federal problem.
The estimated cost of feeding and housing these illegal immigrants for three years is around $10 billion, with Governor Kathy Hochul allocating $2.4 billion for this year. Adams expressed his willingness to share ideas with President-elect Donald Trump regarding the crisis, although he had not yet contacted him due to the high volume of calls the president-elect is likely receiving.
The mayor also criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the border issue and mentioned that his administration had made 10 trips to Washington to negotiate a solution. Plans for a statewide “decompression plan” involving more counties to assist the immigrants are in progress.
Despite Trump’s promises to secure the border and deport illegal immigrants, New York’s sanctuary city laws pose challenges for the administration. These laws restrict police from aiding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and protect illegal immigrants from deportation. The Adams administration reiterated its commitment to these sanctuary laws during the press conference.
Commissioner Manuel Castro, from the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, affirmed the city’s dedication to following sanctuary laws and providing support and information to immigrant communities. He highlighted the importance of dispelling fear and misinformation among immigrants.
When asked about potential policy changes with the new administration, Mayor Adams stated that his administration would continue its current path and advocacy efforts for support from the federal government. He emphasized the need for changes to address the crisis and alleviate the burden on major cities like New York.
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