The Economic Perils of Turning Minnesota into a Sanctuary State
The Biden Administration’s complete and utter failure to secure our nation’s borders is causing an influx of migrants not yet seen, or dealt with in modern history. Now, states across America, especially sanctuary states, are dealing with a public health and safety crisis.
What is a sanctuary state? It’s a state that adopts policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement authorities, including restrictions on local law enforcement's ability to inquire about individuals' immigration status or to detain individuals based solely on immigration violations.
Minnesota Democrats are making a concerning push to transform our state into the country’s 13th sanctuary state, following in the footsteps of California, Illinois, Colorado, Massachusetts, etc. The economic ramifications of such a move could be devastating for our state. How is going to pay for it?! YOU!
The situation in Massachusetts serves as a cautionary tale. Undocumented immigrants have overwhelmed shelters and resources, with some even resorting to sleeping in Boston airport terminals. This is causing significant strain on social services, healthcare facilities, and housing programs.
Minnesota Democrats must consider the potential economic fallout of adopting similar policies. Turning our state into a sanctuary for undocumented immigrants could strain our already stretched resources and exacerbate existing economic disparities.
Sanctuary policies increase public spending on social services, healthcare, and law enforcement. Taxpayer dollars that could be allocated to essential services such as education and infrastructure would instead be diverted to support the needs of undocumented immigrants. This could lead to higher taxes for residents and businesses, stifling economic growth and driving away investment.
We have to mention the public safety of it all too. An individual associated with the terrorist organization al-Shabaab was released from custody at the border and lived freely in Minnesota for almost a year before his arrest. Minnesotans across the state we shocked. “I am furious that he was allowed to roam free in Minnesota in the first place. I shudder to think about the violence this dangerous individual could have committed in our communities,” said Congressman Pete Stauber in a statement.
As Minnesotans, we pride ourselves on our compassionate values and our “nice” demeanor. However, we must also prioritize the economic well-being of our state and its residents. Let's learn from the mistakes of other states and pursue policies that promote economic growth and opportunity for all Minnesotans.