Bus of migrants from Texas expected to arrive in Philadelphia next week
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A bus of roughly 50 migrants is expected to arrive in Philadelphia from Texas next week, the mayor's office announced on Friday night. The bus is expected to depart from Del Rio, Texas, at some point.
The city said Texas officials did not contact Philadelphia ahead of busing the 50 to 52 individuals seeking asylum. The mayor's office learned about the news from a community partner. The city called Texas officials not alerting them about busing migrants to Philadelphia "disappointing and irresponsible."
It's unclear where the bus will arrive in Philadelphia. The city said it's a fluid situation.
Philadelphia's Office of Immigrant Affairs and the Office of Emergency Management have been preparing for the potential unplanned arrival of migrants from southern states since the summer, according to the mayor's office. The city said the agencies have been meeting and coordinating with about 15 local community-based organizations and partners to plan a response, including preparations for immediate reception, shelter space, emergency health screening, food, water and more.
Recently, southern states have been busing migrants to cities across the country, including New York City, Chicago and Washington D.C., to protest President Joe Biden's immigration policies.
Texas said they've sent 3,700 migrants to New York. Many arrived at the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan and were then transferred to the migrant relief center.
On the campaign trail, just before the election, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said Del Rio and other areas were overwhelmed with migrants.
"We're talking about all the people who were being dropped off in their communities," Abbot said. "They had no capability of dealing with whatsoever. Thousands of people in small towns of just ten or 25,000 people themselves."
In a release, the mayor's office said in part: "We are a proud welcoming city and strongly believe that all people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Our diversity is our strength."
The mayor's office said more information will be released as it becomes available.