Denver $356 Million Migrant Bill: Mayor Opposes Deportation Plans Rather go to Jail

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Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has found himself at the center of a heated debate over immigration policy and spending. The city, which has welcomed over 45,000 migrants since December 2022, has spent an estimated $356 million in taxpayer funds to address the crisis. Despite growing frustration from residents, Johnston remains firm in his opposition to former President Donald Trump’s mass deportation plan, even stating he is willing to face jail time rather than comply with such policies.  

 

During a televised exchange with Fox News' Hannity, Trump’s newly appointed "Border Czar," Tom Homan, made it clear he would enforce the plan, stating, *“Me and the Denver mayor, we agree on one thing; he’s willing to go to jail. I’m willing to put him in jail.”* Johnston, however, criticized the proposal, telling CNN it would lead to inhumane outcomes, describing scenarios like *“10-year-old kids being taken out of class in handcuffs.”*  

 

The financial burden of supporting migrants has been a contentious issue for Denver. A study by the Common Sense Institute (CSI) revealed the city has spent approximately $7,900 per migrant, with costs spread across education, healthcare, housing, and other services. Education represents the largest share of expenses, with over 16,000 migrant children enrolled in Denver public schools in the past year. According to the CSI, this influx has cost Denver metro schools $228 million annually, accounting for 1-2% of Colorado’s K-12 education budget for the 2024-25 academic year.  

 

Healthcare expenditures have also drawn attention, totaling $49 million for uncompensated care. Since late 2022, migrants have made 16,760 visits to emergency departments, all funded by taxpayers. Other significant expenses include $123 million for facilities like hotels, $104 million for personnel, and millions more for food and transportation.  

 

The financial strain has forced Johnston to take drastic measures, such as cutting $30 million from public services and contingency funds. With the migrant crisis projected to consume 8% of Denver’s $4.4 billion budget in 2025, further cuts may be necessary.  

 

Johnston’s stance on immigration and the sanctuary city policies has intensified scrutiny from critics. Some residents blame the administration’s approach for crippling city services, while others argue that Denver’s compassion for migrants should not come at the expense of taxpayers.  

 

As the controversy continues, Johnston’s political future hangs in the balance. While he insists that mass deportations are not the solution, the growing resentment among constituents suggests his administration must find a sustainable path forward. Whether Denver’s financial sacrifices are seen as an act of humanitarian leadership or a cautionary tale will likely depend on how the city navigates the challenges ahead.  

 

Based on a report by the Daily Mail 2024-12-03