As the coronavirus continues to take its toll on many U.S. families, President Donald Trump and his administration are taking advantage of the situation to continue their harsh immigration policies. In remarks made at the White House on April 28, 2020, President Trump indicated that he may play favorites when allocating economic relief for states hardest hit by the coronavirus, stating, “We’d have to talk about things like sanctuary cities, as an example.” This veiled threat seems to indicate that aid for Democrat-leaning states may be predicated on their willingness to submit to the demands of the President in their immigration policies.
Requiring Sanctuary City Adjustments
Many civil rights organizations and immigration advocates have spoken out against the link being made by the Trump administration between municipal policies and funding to combat COVID-19. The use of the coronavirus pandemic as a tool to force sanctuary city adjustments appears to be a cynical and political move to pressure state governments to crack down on these cities. For many immigrants living in sanctuary cities, the statements made by President Trump could have a chilling effect on their willingness to seek medical help if they do become ill with COVID-19. This could present a significant public health issue and could put many more people at risk.
Bartering With the Lives of Americans
Federal financial relief is essential to counter the economic effects of the coronavirus on individuals, businesses and states alike. By linking this aid to immigration policies, President Trump and his administration are making it clear that they are not concerned with providing real support for the American people but are instead most interested in furthering their own political goals. Consulting with a Manhattan immigration lawyer is often the best first step toward resolving visa issues and ensuring the safety of families in our area.
If you need the help of a qualified and knowledgeable Manhattan immigration lawyer, Pozo Goldstein can deliver the right solutions for you and your family. Our New York immigration team includes a former judge and two former prosecutors in the immigration field, which allows us to provide the most practical and positive representation for our clients. We can resolve your visa overstays, citizenship applications, deportation proceedings and other issues pertaining to your immigration status. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are still providing initial consultations by Skype or telephone. Call us today at 212-201-9031 to schedule a consultation with us. We are here to serve you.
