Migrants Flown to Martha’s Vineyard by DeSantis in Escalation of Busing Tactic

TALLAHASSEE, Florida — Governor DeSantis on Wednesday flew two planes of immigrants to Martha’s Vineyard, escalating a tactic by Republican governors to draw attention to what they consider to be the Biden administration’s failed border policies.Flights to the upscale island enclave in Massachusetts were part of an effort to “transport illegal immigrants to sanctuary destinations,” said Mr. DeSantis’ communications director, Taryn Fenske.While Mr. DeSantis’ office didn’t elaborate on their legal status, many migrants who cross the border illegally from Mexico are temporarily shielded from deportation after being freed by American authorities to pursue asylum in immigration court — as allowed under American law and international treaty — or released on humanitarian parole.Massachusetts’ governor, Charlie Baker, a Republican, said he was in touch with local officials and that short-term shelter was being provided.Martha’s Vineyard’s state representative, Dylan Fernandes, tweeted: “Our island jumped into action putting together 50 beds, giving everyone a good meal, providing a play area for the children, making sure people have the healthcare and support they need. We are a community that comes together to support immigrants.”Governor Abbott of Texas began busing thousands of migrants to Washington in April and recently added New York and Chicago as destinations. Arizona’s governor, Doug Ducey, has been busing migrants to Washington since May. Passengers must sign waivers that the free trips are voluntary.Mr. DeSantis, who is mentioned as a potential presidential candidate, appears to be taking the strategy to a new level by using planes and choosing Martha’s Vineyard, whose harbor towns, home to about 15,000 people, are far less prepared than New York or Washington for large influxes of migrants.The move is likely to delight Mr. DeSantis’ supporters who deride Democrat-led, immigrant-friendly “sanctuary” cities and anger critics who say he is weaponizing migrants as pawns for political gain.The Florida Legislature appropriated $12 million to transport “illegal immigrants” from the state consistent with federal law, Ms. Fenske said.“States like Massachusetts, New York, and California will better facilitate the care of these individuals who they have invited into our country by incentivizing illegal immigration through their designation as ‘sanctuary states’ and support for the Biden Administration’s open border policies,” Ms. Fenske said.

Migrants Flown to Martha’s Vineyard by DeSantis in Escalation of Busing Tactic

Migrants Flown to Martha’s Vineyard by DeSantis in Escalation of Busing Tactic

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