New York City officials are working to remove National Guard members from migrant shelter operations as part of efforts to protect migrants ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. This decision follows fears that the federal government could repurpose the Guard to enforce immigration laws, a concern raised by advocates and legal experts.
Governor Kathy Hochul initially deployed the National Guard in October 2022 to assist with the surge of migrants entering the city. Since then, they have played a critical role in managing shelter operations. However, with federal funding set to end in April, the city has been gradually phasing out their involvement. As of November, the Guard no longer manages any shelter operations directly, although about 300 members remain stationed at various facilities to support administrative tasks.
Advocates, such as Kathryn Kliff from the Legal Aid Society, have praised the city’s decision, citing the risks posed by potential federalization of the Guard under the new administration. The Trump administration has signaled plans for aggressive immigration enforcement, including threats to sanctuary cities like New York. Legal experts warn that federal powers could allow the president to deploy the National Guard or even U.S. military forces for immigration enforcement, bypassing state control.
Mayor Eric Adams, who has expressed mixed views on sanctuary city policies, emphasized the importance of balancing security and compassion. While opposing mass deportations, he has suggested limited cooperation with federal agencies to address criminal activities among migrants.
The city is also scaling back its overall shelter capacity as the influx of new arrivals slows. Emergency facilities, including a shelter at JFK Airport and another on Randall’s Island, are set to close in the coming months. These closures align with data showing a steady decline in migrant arrivals, attributed to stricter border controls.
Despite these adjustments, concerns remain about how the incoming administration’s policies could affect the city’s migrant population, estimated at over 60,000. Advocates and city officials are exploring measures to safeguard migrants’ rights while preparing for potential federal actions.
Legal experts, like Joseph Nunn from the Brennan Center, highlight the broad authority granted to the president under federal laws, including the Insurrection Act, which could justify military involvement in immigration enforcement. However, such actions would likely face significant legal and public challenges.
As New York City braces for the changes ahead, the focus remains on balancing humanitarian efforts with the evolving political landscape, ensuring the safety and dignity of migrants seeking refuge.