Illinois Gov Joins Dems No Longer Fond of Migrants
Illinois Governor Slams President Biden for Lack of Help in Migrant Crisis
Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker (D.) sent a letter to President Joe Biden calling the migrant crisis in his state “untenable” and slamming the president for his lack of help.
“Unfortunately, the welcome and aid Illinois has been providing to these asylum seekers has not been matched with support by the federal government,” Pritzker wrote on Monday. “Most critically, the federal government’s lack of intervention and coordination at the border has created an untenable situation for Illinois.”
Demands for Action
- Centralize coordination of border management
- Take greater accountability for overseeing where migrants go once released
- Eliminate fees for temporary protected status applications
- Expedite work permits for migrants
Pritzker also attacked Republican politicians who have been sending busloads of migrants to Illinois and other blue states.
“For my state which has been targeted with busloads of asylum seekers by the border politicians seeking to increase the partisan divide, this crisis has strained the already stretched human services network we have attempted to rebuild in our recovery from the pandemic,” Pritzker wrote.
A Shift in Attitude
Pritzker’s letter represents a shift in his previously welcoming attitude toward migrants. In 2021, he signed an executive order to make Illinois the “most welcoming state in the nation,” requiring local officials to end partnerships with Immigration and Customs Enforcement authorities.
“Throughout my governorship I’ve directed my administration to adopt policies that make Illinois a welcoming state for immigrants, and I’m proud to sign these accountability measures into law to advance our cause,” the governor said in a press release announcing the order.
Similar Shifts in Attitude
Pritzker is not the only Democrat to shift away from a previously welcoming attitude toward illegal immigrants. The day before Pritzker sent his letter, New York governor Kathy Hochul called for securing the border and quadrupling the number of Border Patrol positions.
Hochul in 2021 told migrants that “you’re welcome with open arms, and we’ll work to keep you safe.”
What additional funding options are available to support communities impacted by the migrant crisis and alleviate the strain on local resources and services in Illinois
In his letter, Governor Pritzker emphasized the need for the federal government to take immediate action in addressing the migrant crisis in Illinois. He called for the centralization of coordination of border management, highlighting the importance of a cohesive approach to effectively address the challenges posed by the influx of asylum seekers.
Pritzker also stressed the need for increased federal resources at the border, both in terms of personnel and infrastructure. He argued that the current lack of intervention and coordination by the federal government has resulted in an “untenable situation” for the state of Illinois, with communities struggling to provide adequate support and resources to handle the influx of migrants.
The governor further called for improved communication and cooperation between federal and state agencies. He emphasized the importance of streamlining and expediting processes to ensure a swift and efficient response to the crisis. Pritzker urged the federal government to work closely with state and local authorities to develop effective strategies and protocols for managing the influx of asylum seekers.
Additionally, Pritzker called for additional funding to be allocated to communities impacted by the migrant crisis. He highlighted the financial strain placed on local resources and services as a result of the increased demand for housing, healthcare, and education. The governor argued that federal assistance is crucial to ensure that communities are adequately supported and can continue to provide essential services to both asylum seekers and residents.
A Plea for Immediate Help
Governor Pritzker’s letter to President Biden serves as a plea for immediate assistance in addressing the migrant crisis in Illinois. He highlights the overwhelming challenges faced by the state and urges the federal government to take decisive action to alleviate the burden on Illinois communities.
While acknowledging the importance of addressing the broader immigration system, Pritzker emphasizes that the current situation requires immediate attention and support. He urges President Biden to fulfill his promise of a more compassionate and humane approach to immigration and to provide the necessary resources and coordination to effectively manage the migrant crisis in Illinois.
As the situation at the border continues to escalate, Governor Pritzker’s letter serves as a reminder of the urgent need for federal intervention and support. The challenges faced by Illinois and other states on the frontline of the migrant crisis demand a collaborative and concerted effort to ensure the well-being and safety of both asylum seekers and local communities.
It remains to be seen whether President Biden will heed Governor Pritzker’s plea and take decisive action to address the migrant crisis in Illinois. The impact of such actions, or lack thereof, will be felt not only in Illinois but across the country as the immigration debate unfolds.
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