Criticism of New York’s Anti-ICE Policies
Former Democratic Governor of New York, David Paterson, expressed his disapproval of Governor Kathy Hochul’s new anti-ICE legislation during a recent appearance on John Catsimatidis’ radio show. Paterson warned that this policy change could lead to significant legal issues and ultimately, a series of lawsuits.
On the show, aired on 77 WABC, he emphasized that the legislation removes counties’ ability to cooperate with federal law enforcement, potentially resulting in increased federal operations and financial burdens on state residents. “Last I heard, the federal government will replace local governments,” Paterson noted, recalling his efforts to maintain local authority during his tenure as governor from 2008 to 2010.
The bill, passed by Albany lawmakers, aims to end the 287(g) agreement with ICE, restricts federal agents from entering hospitals and parks, and prohibits them from using identity-concealing masks.
Paterson suggested that Republican county leaders may unite against this legislation, with counties like Nassau and Suffolk potentially taking legal action against both the Legislature and the governor for this decision. “It was a terrible mistake they made,” he reiterated on the show.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is running against Hochul this fall, plans to file a lawsuit if the new law disrupts the county’s ICE contract. Meanwhile, federal Border Commissioner Tom Homan has warned that if Hochul signs the bill, more ICE agents could be dispatched to New York.
Blakeman supported Paterson’s views, stating that “Common sense Democrats know that Kathy Hochul has made our neighborhoods less safe with her pro-crime policies.” He described Paterson as a reasonable and considerate Democrat, clearly disturbed by Hochul’s support for the controversial bill.
In her defense, Hochul labeled the legislation as a necessary check against federal overreach, claiming it would position New York as a leader in combating ICE’s actions while assuring that criminals wouldn’t find sanctuary in the state.
