(WNY News Now) – New York Governor Kathy Hochul appeared on Morning Joe to address the asylum seeker crisis and the newly granted work permits for Venezuelan nationals in the state.
NYC – On Friday, September 22, 2023, Governor Kathy Hochul joined MSNBC’s Morning Joe to discuss the asylum seeker crisis in New York State and the recent issuance of work permits for nearly half a million Venezuelan nationals. Willie Geist, the host, questioned Governor Hochul about the significance of these work permits and their impact on the state.
Governor Hochul emphasized that the issuance of work permits was a long-awaited solution to a complex problem. She had been advocating for this change since the summer of 2022, in collaboration with various Democratic officials, including Mayor Adams, Majority Leader Schumer, and Senator Gillibrand. The aim is to allow asylum seekers to support themselves and alleviate the burden on taxpayer-funded shelters while addressing a worker shortage crisis in New York.
However, Governor Hochul stressed the importance of ensuring that this move does not encourage more individuals to seek asylum in New York, as shelter capacities are already stretched. She called for comprehensive immigration reform, including stronger border enforcement and cooperation between Democrats and Republicans in Washington.
The discussion also touched on the challenges of accommodating migrant children in New York’s school systems, with Governor Hochul commending the efforts of educators and administrators while acknowledging the strain on resources.





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