Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, held a press conference outside the Roosevelt Hotel in Manhattan, which has become a relief center for asylum seekers. The press conference was interrupted by loud hecklers protesting the ongoing migrant crisis.
Protesters in the crowd chanted slogans like “Send them back!” and “Close the border!” while drowning out the lawmakers’ statements. A man with a megaphone shouted, “Illegal immigration is not right! Respect the constitution, close the border!” and interrupted Ocasio-Cortez as she spoke.
Despite the disruptions, Ocasio-Cortez and other Democratic representatives addressed the media. Ocasio-Cortez emphasized the need for increased federal resources for cities and municipalities dealing with the migrant issue. She also advocated for work authorizations for migrants to help them support themselves and suggested extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans, who make up a significant portion of the arriving population.
The Roosevelt Hotel serves as an arrival center for migrants, offering food, vaccinations, and assistance from caseworkers.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams recently expressed concerns about the impact of the migrant influx on the city, stating that it could have a detrimental effect on New York City’s services and finances. He warned that the issue could “destroy New York City.”
The ongoing migrant crisis in the city has become a contentious issue, drawing strong opinions from both sides.