East Michigan News

In a recent op-ed published in The Detroit News, State Sen. Jim Runestad highlights the impact of ignoring immigration laws on the residents of Michigan. Runestad emphasizes the importance of immigration laws, stating that every nation recognizes the need to protect the interests of its citizenry through limits and criteria in the admission of new immigrants.

Runestad criticizes the policies put in place by the Biden administration, arguing that they have rendered immigration laws meaningless. He points out that there have been no deterrents or penalties for entering the United States illegally, remaining here illegally, or abusing the asylum policies. Additionally, the rules preventing non-citizens from relying on public assistance have been weakened.

As a result, Runestad states that millions of people from 170 nations have entered the United States illegally over the past three years, endangering national security, disrupting communities, and straining resources. He particularly highlights the impact on states and communities that have adopted sanctuary policies, which create incentives for migrants to settle in places that offer generous benefits and services.

Runestad criticizes Governor Gretchen Whitmer for making Michigan a magnet for people seeking to enter the country illegally and prioritizing their interests over those of disadvantaged citizens. Despite Michigan's high poverty rate, the state has seen a 42% increase in the number of asylum seekers and migrants taking up residence.

He points out that these new migrants often arrive destitute and deeply in debt to criminal cartels. Runestad argues that the provision of significant housing subsidies to migrants through programs like the Newcomer Rental Subsidy (NRS) program only exacerbates the problem and neglects the needs of homeless and struggling citizens.

The op-ed emphasizes that the responsibility to protect the people of Michigan falls on state and local officials in the absence of action from the federal government. Runestad calls for state leadership to advocate for border control, enforcement of immigration laws, and the end of asylum policy abuse. He criticizes Governor Whitmer for incentivizing more migrants to settle in Michigan and compete for scarce resources.

In conclusion, Runestad asserts that until the federal government takes action to address the immigration crisis, it is incumbent upon state and local officials to minimize the impact of illegal immigration on Michigan. He urges Michigan officials to adopt policies that prioritize the interests of the state's residents.

The op-ed by Sen. Jim Runestad highlights the consequences of ignoring immigration laws and the need for state and federal authorities to address the challenges posed by illegal immigration.