Texas Governor Greg Abbott has affirmed his commitment to redirecting migrants to sanctuary cities until President Joe Biden takes decisive action to secure the border. Since the initiation of Operation Lone Star in 2021, a border security and relief initiative, Texas has transported approximately 70,000 migrants out of the state to ease the strain on border communities grappling with an overwhelming influx.
Governor Abbott disclosed that over 25,000 migrants, more than a third of the total transported, were sent to New York City, the largest sanctuary city in the United States. Other destinations included Washington DC, Chicago, Philadelphia, Denver, and Los Angeles.
Sanctuary cities, known for limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities, have been a source of contention. Proponents argue that such policies protect migrant rights, foster trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities, and allow local resources to be allocated elsewhere. Critics counter that sanctuary cities undermine the rule of law, encourage illegal immigration, and pose potential threats to public safety and national security.
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Abbott, a vocal critic of the Biden administration’s handling of the border crisis, accuses Biden of creating a “humanitarian disaster” by reversing Trump-era policies, such as the “Remain in Mexico” program and border wall construction. The governor contends that the surge in migration is a result of the administration’s failure to address root causes, such as poverty, violence, and corruption in migrants’ home countries.
In response, Abbott has deployed state troopers and National Guard members to the border, authorized the arrest and detention of migrants, and continued border wall construction using state funds and private donations. He has declared a state of disaster and a public health emergency in border counties, citing COVID-19 risks, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and criminal activity.
The busing program, a key component of Abbott’s strategy to alleviate pressure on border towns, has faced legal challenges from the federal government and sanctuary cities. The Department of Justice has sued Texas, alleging violations of federal immigration law and interference with the federal government’s authority. Sanctuary cities criticize the program, citing lack of consultation, insufficient resources, and concerns about legality and morality, labeling it a political stunt and a human rights violation.
