De Blasio Acknowledges Disagreements with Democrats
In a noteworthy instance of crossing party lines, former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio admitted to Sean Hannity that he has significant disagreements with Democrats on key issues.
During a candid discussion on Thursday’s “Hangout with Sean Hannity” podcast, de Blasio stated that the criticism aimed at the Biden administration’s handling of the southern border is, in his view, “deserved.”
“Looking back, the idea of ‘defunding the police’ didn’t really hold any meaning. It was more natural to ask, ‘How can we improve this?'” de Blasio remarked.
In 2020, he had pledged to cut the New York City Police Department’s budget by $1 billion following protests throughout the city. However, the funds were ultimately redirected to programs supporting youth centers and public housing.
Hannity reacted with surprise to de Blasio’s remarks, stating, “It’s not like we disagree, right? This is surprising.”
De Blasio reflected, saying, “So, ‘defunding’ was a mistake. I get where it originated, but it was definitely a mistake.” He mentioned that police leaders had suggested he take more action to provide youth with positive opportunities, which he believes contributes to community safety.
On the topic of border policy, de Blasio found common ground with Hannity, stating that the Biden administration could have managed the increase in border activity more effectively. “I don’t agree with Biden on the border issue,” he confessed.
When asked why he hadn’t spoken out sooner, de Blasio mentioned he initially underestimated the severity of the situation. He came to this realization as Biden began tightening border policies later in his presidency.
De Blasio characterized the Biden administration’s late-term changes as somewhat ironic, noting they were able to strengthen border security after a shift in their approach. “As Democrats, we deserve that criticism,” he added, reflecting a measure of self-awareness about the party’s stance.
Back in 2014, de Blasio notably enhanced New York City’s identity as a sanctuary city by signing a law that restricted the New York Police Department and the Department of Corrections from responding to detainer requests from Immigration and Customs Enforcement unless there was a judicial warrant.
He also made it a point that they would only cooperate with ICE if individuals had been convicted of a violent crime or serious felony, and he even closed ICE’s permanent office at Rikers Island.
