New York City Mayor Eric Adams has sparked controversy with his recent remarks about the potential deportation of migrants accused of criminal offenses. During a press briefing on Tuesday, Adams stated that individuals who enter the United States illegally and commit crimes should not have the same constitutional rights as American citizens.
"The Constitution is for Americans"
Adams, who is facing his own legal challenges over federal corruption and bribery charges, differentiated his status as a U.S. citizen from migrants who entered the country illegally.
“I’m an American,” Adams said. “Americans have certain rights. The Constitution is for Americans, and I’m not a person that snuck into this country. … Those who decide to shoot a police officer should not have the same rights as law-abiding citizens. That’s my position.”
The mayor expressed his willingness to work with President-elect Donald Trump’s newly appointed border czar, Tom Homan, to establish a strategy for deporting migrants charged with serious crimes, such as shootings or sexual assault.
“My position is clear: people who commit crimes in our city have abdicated their right to be here, and I’m open to finding the best way to address that,” Adams stated.
The mayor highlighted the case of Bernardo Castro Mata, a 19-year-old Venezuelan migrant accused of shooting two NYPD officers, as an example of individuals he believes should be deported.
“I don’t want that guy in my city, plain and simple,” Adams said. “Those who commit crimes like robberies, shootings, or assaults harm our country and our communities.”
Adams’ comments drew sharp criticism from immigrant advocacy organizations. Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition, accused the mayor of undermining the constitutional rights of immigrants and spreading misinformation about due process.
“He is ripping a page from Trump’s playbook, stoking fear and spreading disinformation,” Awawdeh said in a statement. “As the mayor of New York City, Adams should have a basic understanding of the constitutional rights afforded to everyone in this country.”
Awawdeh called for Adams to retract his statement and clarify how he plans to ensure that all residents of New York City, regardless of immigration status, are guaranteed their constitutional protections.
Adams has previously advocated for changes to New York’s sanctuary city policies, citing the strain on city resources and public safety concerns. His latest remarks signal a growing divide on how to handle immigration and crime, particularly in a city known for its diverse immigrant population.
The issue is expected to remain at the forefront as the mayor prepares to meet with federal officials to discuss potential policy changes under the incoming administration.
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