Mayorkas Criticizes Abbott’s Migrant Busing as Governance Failure

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has strongly condemned Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s practice of transporting migrants to cities across the country, branding it a “remarkable failure of governance.” Mayorkas expressed his concerns on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” emphasizing the need for cooperation among governors and local officials.

Governor Abbott has been directing a continuous stream of buses carrying asylum seekers from Texas to Democratic-led cities, including New York, New Jersey, and Chicago. This has resulted in local officials grappling with the challenges of accommodating the incoming migrants.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams responded to the situation by issuing an executive order last week, requiring advance notice and specific arrival hours for migrant charter buses from Texas. In response, buses of migrants reportedly arrived at train stations in New Jersey over the weekend, with Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy’s office noting that migrants were taking trains to reach New York City.

Mayor Adams characterized the situation as dealing with a “bully,” stating that all lawful options are being considered. Federal officials have been deployed to Chicago, Denver, and New York to assist these cities in managing the challenges posed by the influx of migrants.

Tensions surrounding immigration are escalating on multiple fronts, with House Speaker Mike Johnson and 60 fellow Republicans traveling to Eagle Pass, Texas, to address border issues and advocate for legislation to counter the increasing influx of migrants. Additionally, the House Homeland Security Committee is reportedly gearing up for impeachment proceedings against Secretary Mayorkas on January 10, as reported by Punchbowl on Wednesday morning.

Mayorkas, responding to the impending impeachment proceedings, affirmed his willingness to cooperate with the hearings while continuing to fulfill his duties. The situation remains dynamic, with both state and federal authorities navigating the complex issues surrounding migrant transportation and the broader immigration debate.