Texas continues its controversial migrant relocation program, sending thousands to liberal cities in protest of federal border policies. As Chicago braces for an influx during the Democratic National Convention, city officials scramble to manage the impending surge of people set to arrive soon.
Texas Maintains Migrant Transport Amid Policy Disputes
Texas officials are determined to continue sending migrants to liberal cities, including Chicago, in protest of Biden’s border policies. This move has Chicago bracing for up to 25,000 migrants during the Democratic National Convention next month.
Texas Governor Criticizes Federal Border Policies
Governor Greg Abbott has criticized President Biden and Vice President Harris for not addressing the border crisis. Texas officials argue that sending migrants to sanctuary cities provides relief to overwhelmed border towns.
Migrants to Arrive During Major Political Events
During the recent Republican National Convention, Abbott emphasized his ongoing efforts to bus migrants to various sanctuary cities. He stated that this initiative would persist until the border is secured.
Chicago Prepares for Potential Influx
Chicago officials are preparing for a significant increase in migrants during the Democratic National Convention. The city’s deputy mayor for immigration, Beatriz Ponce de León, estimates an influx of 20,000 to 25,000 migrants.
City Shelters on Standby
Chicago has set aside 5,000 city shelter beds in anticipation of the incoming migrants. Additional beds may be activated if the need arises.
Costly Endeavors
By the end of 2023, Chicago was accommodating about 2,000 migrants weekly, with daily costs reaching approximately $1.5 million. This initiative started in April 2022, with Texas aiming to shift the burden imposed by open-border policies.
Texas’ Migrant Transport Program Costs Soar
Since its inception, Texas has transported over 100,000 migrants to various cities, including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, costing the state over $148 million by January. These relocations target cities like Denver, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., as well.
Chicago Officials Criticize Texas’ Coordination
Chicago officials have raised concerns about the program’s lack of coordination with city authorities. They accuse the state of employing drivers who disregard city regulations when dropping off passengers.
Mayor Johnson Condemns Texas’ Actions
Mayor Brandon Johnson has expressed frustration over Texas’ refusal to collaborate with city leaders. He criticized Governor Abbott’s approach, lamenting the challenges it poses for Chicago’s capacity to manage the influx of migrants.
