Denver mayor spends $356 million taxpayer dollars on migrants

In Denver, Colorado, mayor Mike Johnston has directed over $356 million of taxpayer money to support migrants since December 2022. This spending follows the arrival of approximately 45,000 migrants in the Denver metro area. The majority of the funds, reported by the Common Sense Institute, a non-partisan research organization, have been allocated towards education, healthcare, hotel accommodations, transportation, and childcare. Amid rising costs, the mayor has made significant cuts to city services, including reducing services at recreation centers and halting seasonal activities like flower planting. The financial impact is substantial, accounting for roughly eight percent of the city’s 2025 budget of $4.4 billion. The allocation of these funds reflects the city's status as a sanctuary city, where local authorities do not enforce immigration laws or cooperate with immigration enforcement agencies. Since the influx, nearly 16,197 migrant students have enrolled in Denver schools, leading to an estimated annual cost of $228 million for their education. This figure represents 1-2% of the total state K-12 education budget for the 2024-2025 academic year. Johnston's administration has faced criticism for its prioritization of aid to migrants over traditional city services. Former officials, including Tom Homan, who served as the border security czar under former President Donald Trump, have threatened legal implications for Johnston’s policies. Homan articulated that shielding illegal migrants from law enforcement actions could lead to imprisonment for the mayor, a remark Johnston has dismissed, showing a willingness to face potential consequences for his stance. The ongoing debate surrounding immigration policies has intensified in Denver, with Johnston drawing parallels between his actions and historical protests advocating for civil rights. His commentary has resonated with supporters who see value in providing refuge and support to migrants, highlighting a broader national discussion on immigration reform and resource allocation within cities. As the budget continues to stretch under the weight of migrant-related expenditures, city officials will need to find a balance between providing necessary services to residents and addressing the needs of the incoming migrant populace.