“Everything Is Great. Ask a Democrat if You Don’t Believe Me”: Poll Shows Majority of New Yorkers Blame Biden for Migrant Crisis

Gabriel RomanNov 18, 2023

Minute Read

A recent Siena College poll reveals that approximately two-thirds of New Yorkers disapprove of President Biden’s handling of the migrant crisis. This extends across political lines, with Democrats, Republicans, and independents expressing dissatisfaction. The issue has also impacted the perceptions of Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul, with notable percentages disapproving of their efforts in managing the situation.

Disapproval of Presidential Response to Migrants

The Siena College survey shows that 64% of New Yorkers are dissatisfied with President Biden’s handling of the migrant influx, a clear call for policy reevaluation. This significant majority suggests that the current strategies do not meet the expectations and needs of a large portion of the state’s population.

Cross-Party Discontent with Federal Handling

The dissatisfaction with the federal response to the migrant crisis crosses party lines, revealing a rare consensus. Democrats show a 48% disapproval rate, while 91% of Republicans and 72% of independents are also dissatisfied, highlighting a broad-based demand for a different approach.

Mixed Reactions to Mayor Adams’ Strategy

Mayor Eric Adams also faces divided opinions regarding his handling of the migrant situation. The poll indicates 46% disapproval, with only 30% approving of his policies, reflecting a clear divide in public opinion and suggesting the Mayor’s strategies may not meet many New Yorkers’ expectations.

Governor Hochul’s Management Critiqued

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Governor Kathy Hochul is not immune to criticism. Over half of the respondents (52%) responded disapprovingly towards her approach to the migrant issue. Only 37% approve, signaling a significant portion of the population is not convinced by her methods and strategies for this apparent crisis.

A Pressing Issue for New Yorkers

Many residents feel the severity of the migrant crisis in New York. An overwhelming 84% perceive it as a serious issue, with more than half (57%) viewing it as very serious. This broad consensus reflects a clear concern among New Yorkers about the immediate and long-term impacts of the crisis.

Growing Preference for Limiting Migrant Influx

A clear majority (35-point) of New Yorkers now favor limiting the number of migrants entering the state. This change in public opinion marks a departure from previously more evenly split views. It indicates a growing concern about the capacity of the state and its cities to adequately manage and support the incoming population.

Varied Political Views on Migrant Influx

The approach to managing the migrant influx in New York reveals a distinct political divide. While 82% of Republican voters favor restricting the influx, a notable majority of independents (68%) and a significant portion of Democrats (52%) share this viewpoint. These statistics reflect various concerns and priorities across different political affiliations.

Mayor Adams’ Alarming Projection

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Most New Yorkers (58-32%) share Mayor Eric Adams’ grave concerns about the potential impact of the migrant crisis on New York City. His warning that the crisis could “destroy New York City” resonates with a wide range of the city’s population. This reflects widespread apprehension about the city’s ability to handle such a significant increase in migrants.

Consensus Across Racial Lines on Migrant Issue

The migrant crisis in New York City unites people across racial and ethnic backgrounds in their concern. Majorities of White, Black, and Latino voters agree with Mayor Adams’ bleak outlook for the city if the crisis continues unabated. This cross-racial consensus highlights the issue as not just a political or economic concern but a communal one that affects diverse communities.

Shifting Political Dynamics in New York

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Traditionally a Democratic stronghold, New York is experiencing a noticeable political shift. President Biden’s declining favorability in the state suggests a change in the political landscape, potentially signaling a broader shift in voter preferences and attitudes. This change could have significant implications for future elections and policy directions.

President Biden’s Declining Popularity in NY

The Siena College poll reveals a concerning trend for President Biden. His favorability and job approval ratings have experienced a significant dip among New Yorkers. This decline suggests a growing dissatisfaction with his administration’s policies and actions, particularly concerning the migrant crisis.

Democratic Desire for New Leadership in 2024

Reflecting a potential shift in the Democratic Party’s internal dynamics, over half of the Democrat respondents in New York (52%) are seeking a new presidential nominee for the 2024 elections. This suggests a notable level of discontent within the party’s base. It seems many Democrats desire a change in leadership and perhaps a new direction in policy and approach.

Complexity in Addressing Diverse Opinions

The migrant crisis in New York illustrates the complexity of balancing opinions and addressing diverse needs. The challenge for policymakers and community leaders is to develop strategies considering the varied perspectives and concerns of all stakeholders involved. Crafting solutions requires a comprehensive understanding of the issue and collaborative efforts.

A Tale of Two Extremes

The range of reactions to the migrant crisis shows the division in public opinion. One comment harshly criticizes liberals, saying they are “too simple-minded to vote.” In contrast, another person challenges the narrative often portrayed in right-wing media, calling it a “lie” and highlighting the misinformation and confusion surrounding the issue.

Questioning Presidential Truthfulness

Some users expressed doubt over President Biden’s credibility. A New Yorker expresses skepticism about Biden’s claim of 97% approval for his actions, saying, “This cannot be true; Mr. Biden just said that 97% were in favor of what he is doing, and he wouldn’t lie.” This doubt reflects a broader mistrust in political leadership.

Sarcastic Reactions to Political Rhetoric

Some users used sarcasm to address the political discourse surrounding the migrant crisis. One user said, “Everything is great. Ask a Democrat if you don’t believe me.” Another one joked, “The one-third that does [support Biden] are still lying in cemeteries.” There is a clear level of cynicism and frustration some individuals feel towards the political handling of the situation.

Debating International Contributions

International involvement in the migrant crisis sparks debate among New Yorkers. A notable comment highlights Mexico’s role: “Mexico paid by having 30K soldiers at the border.” This perspective sheds light on the complexities and international efforts in managing the migrant situation. It involves cross-border cooperation and strategies.

Frustrations Over National Priorities

Other users shared their frustrations with the current policy. One user said, “America takes better care of non-Americans than it does Americans who serve/served America.” It appears there is a deep dissatisfaction with national priorities, particularly regarding the perceived difference in treatment between migrants and American veterans.