Republican Governors Send Busloads of Migrants to Democratic-Held Areas

Strategic Insights -

Los Angeles, a predominantly Democratic city, saw over 40 migrants arrive by bus from Texas, sparking condemnation from local officials. Governor Greg Abbott's decision to send migrants to Los Angeles is part of a larger Republican campaign targeting Democratic-held areas. Mayor Karen Bass called the move a "despicable stunt," while Los Angeles City Council member Kevin de León emphasized that the migrants, including children, were under city care.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 40 migrants, including children, were sent by bus from Texas to Los Angeles, a Democratic-held area, as part of a Republican campaign.
  • Governor Greg Abbott (R) stated that this was the "first group" to be bused to Los Angeles, with migrants reportedly having spent 23 hours on the bus without food or water.
  • Jorge-Mario Cabrera, director of communications for the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, clarified that the migrants had not yet received asylum, as they had been allowed into the U.S. due to credible fears.
  • Mayor Karen Bass condemned the move, calling it a "despicable stunt," and stated that city agencies and charitable organizations are providing care for the migrants.
  • Los Angeles City Council member Kevin de León noted that 42 migrants, including children, were on board the vehicle.
  • Texas Governor Greg Abbott has been critical of the Biden administration's border policies, citing an influx of migrants straining public resources.
  • Texas has implemented a $4 billion program to arrest migrant men and charge them with state crimes.
  • This is not the first instance of Governor Abbott busing migrants to other parts of the U.S. – at least two dozen migrants were sent to the U.S. Capitol in April 2022.
  • Since last spring, the state has transferred more than 21,600 migrants, according to Abbott's office.
  • The Biden administration removed pandemic-era measures, allowing a record number of migrants to cross from Mexico into the United States.

Statistics:

  • Over 40 migrants were sent by bus from Texas to Los Angeles.
  • 42 migrants, including children, were on board the vehicle.
  • 23 hours spent on the bus without food or water.
  • More than 21,600 migrants transferred by Texas since last spring.
  • Texas has implemented a $4 billion program to arrest migrant men and charge them with state crimes.

Sources:

  • Associated Press
  • Statement by Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas
  • Quote from Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles
  • Quote from Kevin de León, Los Angeles City Council member
  • Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights
  • Bexar County Sheriff's Office