Rep. Lawler Questions Gov. Hochul on Taxpayer-Funded Healthcare for Illegal Immigrants

Healthcare for Undocumented Immigrants

• ❓ Rep. Lawler questioned Gov. Hochul on whether she supports taxpayer-funded healthcare for illegal immigrants.
• 🏥 Hochul stated that New York provides healthcare to those in need, including mothers with newborns, implying support for such services.
• 💰 Lawler highlighted that New York has spent billions on housing, food, education, and healthcare for illegal immigrants while charging residents for driving into work.

Driver's Licenses and Immigration Policy

• 🚗 Lawler asked if Hochul opposed giving driver's licenses to illegal immigrants when she ran for Congress.
• 🗣️ Hochul initially evaded the question, stating her position had changed since 2020, and acknowledged she had previously opposed it.
• ⚖️ Lawler pressed Hochul on her current stance, suggesting her position has shifted to supporting such policies.

Enforcement and Executive Orders

• 🚨 Lawler questioned Hochul about her past statement regarding calling ICE on those who break the law.
• 🏛️ Hochul stated her state police handle such matters and did not confirm personally calling ICE.
• 🏢 Lawler brought up an executive order (EO 170.1) that reportedly prevents federal immigration authorities from enforcing civil arrests in New York State buildings.
• ⏳ He questioned why Hochul waited several years to reinstate this order, suggesting it was done shortly before a potential change in presidential administration.
• 🛡️ Hochul explained the delay was to ensure victims and witnesses of crimes had access to courts without fear of federal immigration enforcement.

Crime and Sanctuary State Policies

• 📈 Lawler cited statistics showing over 3,200 illegal immigrants arrested in New York City for crimes while in taxpayer-funded housing.
• ❓ He questioned if citizens face fewer protections than illegal immigrants in state buildings.
• 📜 Lawler asked if Hochul supports the "New York for All Act," which would codify New York as a sanctuary state.
• 🤔 Hochul avoided a direct yes or no answer, stating she evaluates bills when they reach her desk.