Denver is currently reevaluating its stance after previously declaring itself a sanctuary city, amid new developments involving city officials and the arrival of migrants. A key figure in this scenario is Andres Carrera, a political aide to Denver’s Mayor Mike Johnston and the city’s liaison for new arrivals. Carrera was captured in a recording addressing a group of migrants who had been transported to Denver by Texas Governor Greg Abbott on March 26.
In his message, Carrera advised the migrants that cities like New York and Chicago could offer them more substantial support, including longer-term shelter and better job prospects. He highlighted that the resources and job opportunities in Denver are already strained due to the presence of 40,000 migrants. Carrera emphasized that while the city would not prevent them from staying, they might face tougher conditions compared to other cities.
A top official in Denver was just caught on tape begging illegals to leave the city:
Denver Newcomer Liaison: "Any city. We can take you to the Canadian border, wherever."
He promises them that there are better stuff awaiting them in Chicago and NY.
Denver is a self-designated… pic.twitter.com/NjsnmlTEHe
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) March 31, 2024
He also mentioned that Denver is willing to provide bus tickets to any city the migrants wish to go to, clarifying later through a city spokesperson that this offer extends to U.S. cities near the Canadian border but not to Canadian cities themselves.
During Carrera’s conversation with the migrants, when he inquired about their interest in moving to another city, few expressed a desire to leave Denver. The majority indicated a preference to stay in Denver.
Denver’s approach to migrant housing allows for individual migrants to stay in shelters for up to two weeks and families with children for up to six weeks. Despite allocating over $100 million for services including housing, education, and medical care for asylum seekers, the costs are anticipated to rise to $180 million, consuming 15% of the city’s annual budget.
Additionally, Denver has begun dismantling migrant camps, including one near the Elitch Gardens amusement park. While initially resistant, some migrants eventually agreed to shelter offers or requested help to travel further.
The situation in Denver reflects a broader challenge faced by cities that have adopted sanctuary policies. Nearby cities, like Colorado Springs and Aurora, have taken steps to declare they are not sanctuary cities, aiming to deter migrants from settling there due to financial constraints.
This issue is not unique to Denver; other cities, including Chicago and New York, are grappling with the complexities of supporting a growing number of migrants. Chicago has had to relocate asylum seekers from overcrowded shelters, while New York struggles with its “right to shelter” obligations amidst a significant influx of migrants. These developments underscore the tensions and challenges sanctuary cities face in managing the expectations and realities of providing sanctuary.
