New York City Democrat Mayor Eric Adams recently asserted that the United States “needs” illegal immigrants. During an interview on Friday, Adams claimed that the current illegal immigration crisis could be beneficial, citing concerns over population declines in certain areas.
“Many of our municipalities have needs for workers, and their populations have dropped,” Adams told New York’s 1010 WINS’s “The PM Rush.” He suggested that an influx of illegal immigrants might address these issues, despite the significant challenges posed by unregulated border crossings.
When asked whether the immigration policies of former President Donald Trump or President Joe Biden would be better for the U.S., Adams emphasized the necessity of immigration reform. He argued that the millions of illegal aliens crossing the southern border under Biden’s administration do not necessarily pose a problem if managed correctly. “We need real, true immigration reform. We need to monitor the movement at the border, and we need a decompression strategy that addresses the needs of the country,” Adams stated. He believes that with proper implementation, the situation could be turned into a positive.
Earlier this year, Adams faced criticism for distributing pre-paid credit cards to illegal immigrants living in New York City. He defended this controversial decision, calling it a “real win” and a “smart way to bring down the cost” of accommodating the thousands of illegal aliens in the city. The mayor claimed that this approach would save the city about $600,000 a month and $7.2 million a year by allowing illegal aliens to use pre-paid cards at local businesses, including bodegas, grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores across Manhattan.
Adams’s comments come as new Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data revealed that 170,723 illegal immigrants were encountered while crossing the southern border in May. Since Biden took office, more than 9.8 million illegal aliens have crossed the U.S.-Mexico border. This staggering number underscores the urgent need for effective immigration policies and border control measures to address the ongoing crisis.
The conservative perspective highlights the dangers and costs associated with uncontrolled illegal immigration. While Mayor Adams views the influx of illegal immigrants as a potential solution to workforce shortages, many argue that it exacerbates existing problems, strains public resources, and undermines the rule of law. The priority should be on securing the border, enforcing immigration laws, and implementing reforms that prioritize the safety and well-being of American citizens.
