Flight Diverted to Philadelphia
The office of New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed outrage after a flight carrying migrants, chartered by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, was diverted to Philadelphia due to weather conditions. The passengers were then transported to New York City via bus, a move that Mayor Adams deemed “inhumane.”
Abbott’s Controversial Strategy
This flight diversion is the latest in a series of controversial moves by Governor Abbott’s office. Just last week, a flight carrying 120 migrants was dispatched to Chicago. According to sources, all migrants signed voluntary waivers, similar to the bussing strategy implemented by Abbott in April 2022. This strategy involved transporting migrants to various “sanctuary” cities that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
Mayors and Biden Administration React
The bussing of migrants by Texas has sparked anger among mayors and the Biden administration. The White House accused Governor Abbott of using these actions as political stunts. However, Texas argues that it is providing vital relief to border towns affected by the ongoing border crisis. Mayor Adams of New York City has been vocal about the need for additional federal assistance with resettlement and has warned that the crisis could potentially “destroy” the city.
Federal Government’s Response
Mayor Adams has repeatedly criticized the lack of action from the federal government in addressing the migrant crisis. The Biden administration has provided funding and support to cities like New York City, including assistance with processing work permits. However, Congress is currently debating additional restrictions on asylum as part of the budget supplemental, which has delayed the release of additional funding. Meanwhile, federal officials reported a record-high number of over 242,000 migrant encounters at the southern border in November.
Source: Fox News