Springfield News-Sun

Liberal cities are experienci­ng tug of war between ideals, realities

- Armstrong Williams is a political commentato­r, entreprene­ur, author, and talk show host.

tled “sanctuarie­s”; they have become necessitie­s.

But what draws so many to states like Massachuse­tts and New York? The answer lies in the state’s liberal policies. As Healey remarked in her appeal to the Department of Homeland Security, Massachuse­tts has always been a “beacon to those in need.” This compassion­ate stance undoubtedl­y become its Achilles’ heel. Its policies, aimed at providing a safe haven for migrants, have unintentio­nally made it a magnet for an overwhelmi­ng influx of migrants.

This crisis brings to the fore two uncomforta­ble realities: Liberal cities were unprepared for the ramificati­ons of their policies, and the consequenc­es of their actions may lead to their own party’s undoing.

Reading through the news, combing through social media and speaking to people on the ground, it is clear that the phrase “sanctuary city” is likely at its death. It was easy for governors and mayors of liberal states and cities to decry states like Texas for their perceived inhumanity for refusing to allow more migrants to stay in their towns and for advocating for closed borders. But now that the problem is in their backyard, they see the grave issues that it can pose. They see the unfairness in treatment compared to their states’ own needs.

This current situation should offer a moment of reflection for these cities and for the people who support the policies that have destroyed them. It is a stark reminder that we can’t help everyone, and if we’re going to try, we should do it the right way.

Though, the right way is not always the compassion­ate way.

Unfortunat­ely for Democrats, they are now discoverin­g that their approach of compassion through open borders and free services may be less humane than the alternativ­e. When newcomers receive treatment far superior to that of existing citizens, it raises a painful question: Why are so many in dire circumstan­ces within our borders ignored? Is it because they are Americans, like me?

These disparitie­s are becoming more apparent, and the generous conditions provided to migrants may only serve to encourage more to come to the U.S. Friends and family hear of the services provided and are drawn to make the journey. No doubt the countries that these migrants come from face the gambit of issues that may make them eligible for asylum: conflict, persecutio­n, death. Yet, instead of offering aid to their countries to encourage them to stay where they are, the U.S. seems content to accept their citizens.

The unfolding situation in liberal cities reflects

broader national challenge. It represents a tug of war between ideals and harsh realities.

The current conditions are undoubtedl­y opening the eyes of Democrats to the true consequenc­es of their party’s policies. More than ever, this situation exposes the lies that the Democratic elites tell their supporters.

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