Colorado Officials Refuse Sanctuary Status, Slam Federal Migrant Policy as “A Betrayal of Our Nation”

Colorado authorities have made it clear that the state will not serve as a sanctuary for migrants. Due to the increasing migrant encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border, officials from sanctuary cities like Denver, Chicago, and New York have sought additional federal support.

Political Tensions

Illustration. Image credit: Depositphotos

The situation at the southern border has ignited widespread political tensions, with Texas Governor Greg Abbott garnering support from 25 fellow Republican Governors who assert that he and his state have the authority to protect themselves from the influx of migrants.

Busing Migrants

Governor Greg Abbott
Image by Carrington Tatum / Shutterstock.com

Abbott has been transferring thousands of migrants to cities led by Democrats and is in a confrontation with the federal government over control of Shelby Park, aiming to halt the influx of migrants.

Support for Sharing Burden

close up of conference meeting speacher gestures. Politician, businessman, law
Image by Depositphotos.com

Denver’s Democratic Mike Johnston expressed support for Abbott, stating that the Texas Republican should not bear the full burden of addressing the influx of newcomers.

Work Together

Image by Depositphotos.com

He said, “Cities and the federal government can work together to coordinate a plan for admitting and serving people across the country to make sure that no one city is overtaxed.”

Budget Impact 

Image by Depositphotos.com

Johnston projected that Denver would need to allocate $160 million for the migrant crisis next year, which constitutes approximately 10% of the city’s budget. He cautioned that similar financial pressures would strain city budgets nationwide.

Colorado Springs Position

Image by Depositphotos.com

“Colorado Springs is not a sanctuary city. We want to come out and say that clearly,” announced Councilman Dave Donelson during a press conference in El Paso, Texas, a Democrat-led city on Wednesday.

Federal Government Betrayal

Dishonest businessman telling lies, lying businessperson holding fingers crossed behind his back. Lie
Illustration. Image credit: Depositphotos

Donelson conveyed to Newsweek on Thursday evening that the federal government’s failure to adequately enforce borders is “a betrayal of our nation.”

El Paso County’s Stance

Image by Depositphotos.com

El Paso County officials, led by Commissioners Cami Bremer and Carrie Geitner, outlined their migration policy, firmly opposing the sanctuary designation. They advocate for legal immigration and call for federal border security and reform.

Not a Sanctuary County

Image by Depositphotos.com

Bremer stated, “El Paso County has not, and will not, be designated as a sanctuary county.”

Financial & Safety Concerns

Illustration. Image by Depositphotos.com

The officials warned of the financial limitations and the risks to migrant safety in sanctuary cities. 

Chicago Lawsuit

Illustration. Image by Depositphotos.com

A coalition of Chicago residents filed a lawsuit against the city, alleging that the encouragement of migrants to seek refuge in their communities had led to disorder. 

Biden is Responsible

Image by palinchak via Depositphotos.com

They placed responsibility for the ongoing crisis on President Joe Biden’s administration rather than Governor Abbott.

Mayor Adams Warning

Illustration. Image credit: thenews2 via Depositphotos

In September last year, New York City Mayor Eric Adams also warned that the migrant issue would “destroy New York City.” He made these remarks in response to the arrival of hundreds of thousands of migrants in the city

Local Priorities Over Sanctuaries

Illustration. Image by Depositphotos.com

El Paso County emphasizes the importance of prioritizing local residents’ welfare and quality of life, rejecting the notion of becoming a sanctuary county to avoid straining community resources.

Not Selling Dreams

Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock

Vernon Stewart, a spokesperson for El Paso, remarked, “We in El Paso County must draw a line in the sand. We’re not in the business of selling dreams that can’t be fulfilled. Offering sanctuary or support beyond our capabilities is a dangerous game, one that risks the safety of both migrants and our citizens.”

Fiscal Responsibility

Illustration. Image by Depositphotos.com

Officials in Colorado Springs echo this perspective.

Mayor Yemi Mobolade of Colorado Springs highlighted the importance of serving those in need while prioritizing the city’s limited financial resources for the benefit of its own residents.

Critique of the Mayor’s Approach

Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock

Councilman Donelson, however, criticizes Mayor Mobolade for not seeking federal border security assistance, arguing that caring for residents does not imply subsequent support for illegal immigrants.

Defending Taxpayer Dollars

Illustration. Image by Feverpitch via Depositphotos.com

He said, “Sending an absolutely clear message that the county and city won’t spend taxpayer dollars on providing services to illegal aliens isn’t political grandstanding.”

Read Next: What Really Causes Donald Trump’s Skin to be So Orange

Photo by stock_photo_world / Shutterstock.com

Former President Donald Trump’s distinctive orange skin has captivated attention, sparking curiosity about its evolution from average pale over the years:

What Really Causes Donald Trump’s Skin to be So Orange

21 of the Biggest Lies in American History

Image by Depositphotos.com

Dive into the shadows of American history as we explore 21 of its biggest lies that have left an indelible mark on the nation’s narrative:

21 of the Biggest Lies in American History

32 Things We Once Highly Respected but Are a Complete Joke Now

Image credit: Rainer Puster via Canva.com

Discover the amusing downfall of once-respected entities in our changing world:

32 Things We Once Highly Respected but Are a Complete Joke Now

23 of Donald Trump’s Most Hilarious Moments as President

Image by Evan El-Amin / Shutterstock.com

Explore the lighter side of Donald Trump’s presidency with 23 hilariously memorable moments that left the nation in stitches:

23 of Donald Trump’s Most Hilarious Moments as President

27 Things MAGA Movement Ruined Forever for People

Photo by MANDEL NGAN / AFP

How the MAGA movement left its mark on individuals and disrupted certain aspects of our everyday life forever:

27 Things MAGA Movement Ruined Forever for People