Concerns Raised by Cuban-American Caller on Immigration Policies
A Democratic caller from New York City, identifying as a legal immigrant from Cuba, expressed his frustration with illegal immigration and the perceived misuses of the American system.
He made his remarks during a segment on C-Span’s Washington Journal, highlighting how luxury hotels in the city were repurposed for immigrant housing during the Biden administration. The caller reflected on his own experience, mentioning that when he immigrated to the U.S. as a child in 1975, he did not receive the same support that today’s immigrants do.
Recalling his journey, he said, “When I was born in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, a black family helped my mother and me find a place to stay when we arrived in 1975. Back in my day, we didn’t get $9,000 cards or stay in fancy hotels.”
He elaborated on his status as a Cuban refugee during the Cold War, stating, “After arriving, I received a resident alien card and became a U.S. citizen in 1989.” According to him, Biden “opened the borders,” which has led to an influx of immigrants, including “crazy Venezuelan gangs” that he believes have become a threat.
“I became a legal citizen, and yet, these newcomers get perks like $9,000 cards and hotel accommodations while many homeless people in New York City struggle. It feels unfair,” he remarked. “The America I knew as a child isn’t the same anymore. If things don’t change, closing the border might be the only option.”
He also expressed concerns about crime in the Bronx, calling it a “shooting gallery.”
Recent legal actions have also highlighted tensions over immigration policies. The Department of Justice under Trump filed a lawsuit against New York City’s mayor, Eric Adams, regarding the city’s sanctuary laws. This action followed a reported attack on an off-duty border guard by two illegal immigrants with lengthy criminal histories.
Since Trump’s return to the White House, Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) has made 6,025 detainee requests in New York City, a significant increase compared to the 9,472 requests during Biden’s presidency.
