According to a recent report, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has relocated undocumented immigrants who arrived in the city to various destinations across the United States and around the world, including China. This move comes despite Adams criticizing Texas for sending illegal migrants to New York, which he referred to as “horrific.” The report states that Adams facilitated the resettlement of 114 migrant households to over a dozen states and five countries, including China, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador, using taxpayer money amounting to $50,000 between April 2022 and April 2023.
In response to these actions, a spokesperson for Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott questioned the lack of outrage and condemnation from the White House and Democrats, considering that Adams, a Democrat himself, is sending migrants out of town, out of state, and even out of the country. The spokesperson urged Adams to redirect his efforts towards calling on President Biden and Congress to address border security issues.
The information regarding these resettlements was obtained by POLITICO through a public information request. The report reveals that more than a dozen states received illegal immigrants, with significant numbers going to Florida, Texas, North Carolina, and Illinois.
Kate Smart, a spokesperson for Mayor Adams, defended the relocation initiative, stating that it differed from what Governor Abbott and Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida had done. According to Smart, New York City has been working to assist individuals in reconnecting with friends, family, and networks, both within and outside the city, without exerting any coercive influence or making recommendations. Smart emphasized that they are simply aiding those who wish to reunite with loved ones or communities.
Adams has made no secret of his disapproval of Governor Abbott, who has sent nearly 10,000 migrants to New York. Adams has characterized Abbott’s actions as “horrific” and contrary to the democratic values that New York City has always represented, highlighting America’s historical openness to those fleeing persecution and intolerable conditions.