TALLAHASSEE, Fla.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis flew two migrant planes to Martha’s Vineyard on Wednesday, escalating a tactic by Republican governors to draw attention to what they see as failed border policies by the Biden administration.
The flights to the luxury island enclave in Massachusetts were part of an effort to “transport illegal immigrants to sanctuary destinations,” said Taryn Fenske, communications director for DeSantis.
While DeSantis’ office did not elaborate on their legal status, many migrants who cross the border illegally from Mexico are temporarily protected from deportation after US authorities released them to seek asylum in immigration court, as allowed. by US law and international treaty. – or placed on humanitarian parole.
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, a Republican, said he was in contact with local officials and short-term shelter was being provided.
Martha’s Vineyard has billed itself as a “sanctuary destination” that welcomes immigrants, a position it assumed early in the administration of former US President Donald Trump.
State Representative Dylan Fernandes, who represents Martha’s Vineyard, tweeted: “Our island sprang into action by setting up 50 beds, giving everyone a good meal, providing a playground for the kids, making sure people have the healthcare and support they need. We are a community that comes together to support immigrants.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott began ferrying thousands of immigrants to Washington in April and recently added New York and Chicago as destinations. Arizona Governor Doug Ducey has been transporting immigrants to Washington since May. Riders must sign waivers that the free rides are voluntary.
DeSantis, who is mentioned as a possible presidential candidate, seems to be taking the strategy to a new level by using planes and choosing Martha’s Vineyard, whose port cities that are home to about 15,000 people are much less prepared than New York or Washington for large influxes. of migrants
The move is likely to delight DeSantis supporters, who scoff at Democrat-led, immigrant-friendly “sanctuary” cities, and anger critics who say he is using immigrants as weapons for political gain. .
The Florida Legislature appropriated $12 million to transport “illegal immigrants” from the state in accordance with federal law, Fenske said.
“States like Massachusetts, New York and California will better facilitate the care of these people they have invited into our country by incentivizing illegal immigration through their designation as ‘sanctuary states’ and support for the open border policies of the Biden administration,” Fenske said. .