Staff Reports
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, a Democrat, has had a change of heart when it comes to immigration policies. Despite advocating for New Jersey to become a “sanctuary state” during his campaign in 2017, Governor Murphy is now refusing to take in immigrants as proposed under a plan by the Biden administration. The plan suggested moving some of the 60,000 asylum seekers in New York City to the Atlantic City International Airport in New Jersey, which has sparked backlash from New Jersey politicians.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has changed his stance on border policies after refusing to take in immigrants as proposed under a Biden administration scheme, even though the governor had earlier insisted on building a “sanctuary state.” https://t.co/iGI7pGl2Lm
— The Epoch Times (@EpochTimes) September 5, 2023
During an appearance on News 12 New Jersey’s “Ask Gov. Murphy” show, the governor made it clear that he did not see any scenario where New Jersey would be able to take in a program like this. He cited the need for enormous federal support and resources that the state simply cannot afford. This change in stance comes as a surprise, considering Governor Murphy’s previous vocal support for liberal immigration policies.
Republicans in New Jersey have called out the governor and the federal government for their inability to effectively address the immigration crisis. They argue that New Jersey should not bear the burden of failed Democrat policies that impact both Americans and immigrants. Republican Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson has stated that he will do his best to prevent migrants from being sent to the region, citing the county’s already strained resources.
While New Jersey is rejecting the Biden administration’s proposal, New York’s leaders are facing their own challenges with immigration. Governor Kathy Hochul is placing the blame on the federal government, stating that the crisis originated with them and must be resolved by them. However, New York City Mayor Eric Adams is pointing the finger at Governor Hochul, arguing that every county in the state should be part of the solution.
The number of illegal immigrants crossing into the United States has surged under the current administration. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported over 2 million encounters at the southwest land border as of July 2023, compared to 458,088 encounters in 2020. Presidential hopeful Senator Tim Scott, a Republican, emphasizes the need to complete the border wall and combat drug trafficking to protect American lives. However, his legislation has yet to become law.
As the immigration crisis continues, it’s clear that both Democrats and Republicans are grappling with the best approach to address the issue and protect the interests of their constituents.
