New York Mayor Faces Backlash Over Proposal to Deport Migrants Accused of Crimes

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing criticism after calling for migrants who commit crimes in the city to be deported, even if they have not been convicted.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Adams emphasized his commitment to public safety, stating, “My position is people who commit crimes in our city, you have abdicated your right to be in our city.”

The comments, made during a Tuesday press conference, have drawn criticism from immigration advocates and fellow Democrats, who accuse Adams of targeting vulnerable people and adopting policies aligned with the incoming Trump administration’s strict stance on immigration.

While the mayor affirmed his respect for due process, he maintained a firm stance, saying, “You commit crimes in our city, I’m always going to be of the belief in a position that you don’t have the right to be in our city.” He added, “If someone committed a crime and they face jail time, I want them deported after they serve.”

Adams defended his position, citing the need to protect New Yorkers, including law-abiding migrants, from individuals who pose safety risks.

“If you come into this country, in this city, and think you’re going to harm innocent New Yorkers and innocent migrants and asylum seekers, this is not the mayor you want to be in the city under,” Adams said.

Adams also expressed that he is willing to collaborate with federal officials, saying, “I’m open to anything to get criminals out of our city. I’m willing to sit down with the [border] czar and find out what his plans are.”

The mayor, however, anticipated resistance from progressive circles, stating, “Cancel me because I’m going to protect the people of this city.”

Adams’ remarks come amidst growing tension over New York’s handling of the migrant crisis, with over 130,000 asylum seekers arriving in the city since spring 2022.

Check out the full press conference.