DeSantis’s Migrant Shipping Controversy: A Public Relations Disaster or a Clever Move?
If you really want to deter migrants from coming to the US, leaving them in Texas might be the best course of action. However, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida decided to ship migrants to Marthas Vineyard, seemingly to avoid the legal and ethical implications of keeping them in Texas. This move, while intended to curb migration, has resulted in a significant public relations nightmare.
The Intention Behind the Action
DeSantis’s plan was to transport migrants to a wealthy, liberal destination like Martha’s Vineyard to protest what he considers inadequate federal efforts on the southern border. However, his initial promise of jobs and legal status turned out to be false, as evidenced by the rapid spread of information and the subsequent backlash.
A Clear Case of Stupidity and Evil
This move not only fails to deter migrants but also highlights the incompetence of the politically motivated actions. DeSantis and Lieutenant Governor Dan P. Abbott committed federal felonies by transporting stolen individuals across state lines. The refugees were met with a warm welcome from both individuals and churches, as well as local authorities, reminiscent of what would be expected during the time of Jesus Christ.
Impact on Labor Markets
Shipping migrants to Martha’s Vineyard actually puts them in a position better suited for integration into the local economy. The area is in need of low-skilled labor, and being away from the border where wages are the lowest due to overwhelming job competition, is a more advantageous placement.
The influx of migrants into Texas has already led to a significant drop in construction wages for low-skilled and non-skilled labor. This is particularly relevant as the supply of workers has surged, making it easier for employers to negotiate lower starting wages. For example, a $150,000 house in Texas can cost $300,000 in Chicago or Minneapolis due to the differences in supply and demand for housing and labor.
A Comedy of Errors or Absurd Political Discourse?
This situation reads like a setup for a Saturday Night Live sketch, where two planes carrying migrants arrive at a affluent summer destination in the hopes of stirring up a political storm. However, it goes beyond mere comedy and delves into the absurdity of current political discourse, where actions can quickly backfire and result in widespread condemnation and legal consequences.
The Arrival at Martha’s Vineyard
According to state Senator Julian Cyr, from Martha’s Vineyard, an estimated 50 migrants arrived Wednesday on two planes. The planes landed around 3 p.m. ET, and white vans were dispatched by the town to transfer the migrants to the Martha’s Vineyard Community Services.
James Hagerty, the Edgartown town administrator, added that officials believe all the migrants originated in Venezuela. A local fire chief had earlier indicated the arrival of the migrants, as detailed in various local reports.
The response from local authorities and residents has been overwhelmingly positive, marking a stark contrast to the intended political objectives of DeSantis’s initial actions.
As the story unfolds, it is clear that DeSantis’s migration efforts have landed him in a significant public relations crisis, raising questions about the effectiveness and morality of such politically motivated actions.