New York City Mayor Eric Adams attempted to reassure the city’s undocumented immigrants Wednesday, amidst concerns of mass deportation under President-elect Donald Trump. However, he offered few details on how the administration plans to protect them.
Adams congratulated Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance, while also emphasizing his commitment to working with the coming administration for the good of all New Yorkers. He emphasized that the city’s undocumented immigrants will be informed of their rights but did not elaborate on potential cooperation with Trump’s deportation plans.
The mayor was flanked by top officials, including NYPD Commissioner Thomas Donlon, and stated that peaceful protests would be tolerated but warned against violence or major disruptions. First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres Springer highlighted the administration’s focus on key issues such as infrastructure spending and budget, which are heavily reliant on federal grants.
However, the major concern is the potential for mass deportation under Trump’s policies, with Commissioner Manny Castro stating that the administration will “wait to see” what happens in a Trump presidency. Castro deflected questions about whether City Hall would cooperate with Trump’s plans, citing a need to reassure immigrant students and families without adding to their anxiety.
Governor Kathy Hochul took a more aggressive stance against Trump, announcing the Empire State Freedom Initiative to protect key areas threatened by his administration. She vowed to fight any attempts to harm New Yorkers or roll back their rights.
Source: https://www.thecity.nyc/2024/11/06/adams-calm-deportation-fears-trump