Mayor Adams Reacts to Trump’s Win, Vows to Protect Undocumented Immigrants
A subdued Mayor Eric Adams tried to reassure New Yorkers on Wednesday, in the wake of former President Donald Trump’s election night win, urging protection for the city’s undocumented immigrants while not offering many details amid threats of mass deportation.
Mayor’s Press Conference
At a press conference, Adams said, "I want to congratulate President-elect Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance and wish them all the best as they work to promote the interests of all of the people." He added that, as the nation’s largest city, he would work with the mayors of other cities to come up with a "real agenda."
Focus on Undocumented Immigrants
The major focus was on the city’s undocumented immigrants, as Trump has promised to use agencies across the federal government, including the military, to deport people en masse — and apply pressure to "sanctuary" cities like New York. Manny Castro, the commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, said he spoke early Wednesday with the schools chancellor to figure out ways to reassure immigrant students and their families.
Reassuring Immigrant Communities
Castro said, "We cannot add to the anxiety and fear that people are experiencing." He noted that the administration will "wait to see" what happens in a Trump presidency and focus on informing immigrants of their rights, but offered few details on whether City Hall would cooperate with Trump’s deportation plans.
Governor’s Response
Governor Kathy Hochul took a more aggressive stance against President-elect Trump, standing next to Attorney General Leticia James and announcing the Empire State Freedom Initiative, "focused on key areas that are most likely to face the greatest threat from the Trump administration." She warned, "If you try to harm New Yorkers or roll back their rights, I will fight you every step of the way."
Conclusion
As the nation’s largest city, New York City is prepared to face the challenges that may come with a Trump presidency. Mayor Adams has vowed to protect the city’s undocumented immigrants and work with the incoming administration to promote the interests of all New Yorkers.
FAQs
Q: What did Mayor Adams say about Trump’s win?
A: Adams congratulated President-elect Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance and urged protection for the city’s undocumented immigrants.
Q: What is the city’s plan to reassure immigrant communities?
A: The administration will focus on informing immigrants of their rights and reassuring them, but few details were provided on whether City Hall would cooperate with Trump’s deportation plans.
Q: How did Governor Hochul respond to Trump’s win?
A: Governor Hochul took a more aggressive stance, announcing the Empire State Freedom Initiative and warning that she will fight any attempts to harm New Yorkers or roll back their rights.
