Texas Flies Over 350 Migrants to Chicago Sunday Morning

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Texas Governor Greg Abbott address migrant crisisPhoto byX (Twitter)

After leaving San Antonio Airport, a plane carrying 355 migrants landed in Rockford, Illinois early Sunday morning. This flight from Texas is a recent change since Chicago announced stricter rules for migrant buses in November.    

Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara released a statement that said according to ABC 7:

"Once the plane lands, those onboard will offload and immediately board buses to Chicago's 'landing zone.' Those on the plane will not exit the airport property at any time before boarding the buses. Sheriff's Deputies will then be escorting buses to I-90 to allow for safe passage."

The statement also said according to WGN 9:

 “As many people may know, the City of Chicago recently adopted an ordinance with certain requirements related to the arrival of migrants. As a result, the governor of Texas has redirected buses and planes to other nearby cities.” 

While Chicago is a sanctuary city, Rockford is not. 

Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker asked cities outside of Chicago to be prepared to assist with migrants arriving. Pritzker announced $41.5 million in grants to help cities with migrant shelter support, food, legal support, and health care needs. 

One resident said at a public meeting according to ABC 7:

"All the sudden we have deep pockets for people who don't pay taxes. I understand helping people, but you start with your own home."

Since migrants began arriving in Chicago in the summer of 2022, the City has been overwhelmed trying to support them. Several local citizens have demonstrated and complained over the support migrants have received according to this interview on Fox & Friends First.  

Governor Abbott has begun flying migrants to Chicago and New York City over the past month.

Do you think air travel will be a more common way of travel Governor Abbott uses in 2024?