Washington Examiner

Migrant crisis: Colorado officials pass blame over illegal immigration

Denver-area officials and immigration experts have pointed to the broken federal immigration system as the root cause of the large influx of undocumented migrants settling in Colorado, while differing on how to address the situation. University of Colorado law professor Violeta Chapin emphasized the challenges of lawful migration and the need for more pathways to legalize status. Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, a former U.S. House lawmaker, criticized the polarization of the immigration debate in Washington, D.C., while Douglas County Commissioner Abe Lydon accused Denver of adopting an unsustainable approach to welcoming migrants. Lydon argued that Denver's approach, which has cost the city millions and led to strained resources, is not true compassion. Denver officials, however, maintained their commitment to providing aid and shelter to migrants, acknowledging that they are managing a crisis with limited federal support. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's busing of illegal immigrants to Denver and other cities has also contributed to the challenges faced by local governments.