Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has criticized Texas Governor Greg Abbott's decision to transport migrants to her city, characterizing it as a political maneuver. Bass confirmed the arrival of 40 migrants, expressing her disapproval of using individuals as "pawns in cheap political games." Abbott's office stated this was the first group sent to Los Angeles, dropped off at Union Station. This action follows similar moves by Texas to send migrants to other sanctuary cities that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Earlier this month, the Los Angeles City Council moved forward with an ordinance to formally declare the city a sanctuary city, restricting the use of city resources for federal immigration enforcement. Texas has previously transported migrants to Washington D.C., New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Denver, totaling over 21,000 individuals, according to Abbott's office. The governor justified the action by citing the strain on Texas border towns due to President Biden's perceived inaction on border security. He pointed out Los Angeles as a frequent destination for migrants, particularly given its sanctuary city status.

While Mayor Bass labeled the move a "despicable stunt," she affirmed the city's preparedness, highlighting the coordinated response of emergency management, police, fire departments, and non-profit organizations. She reiterated Los Angeles' commitment to treating everyone with dignity and compassion, collaborating with various partners to provide support. This incident follows Florida's recent transport of migrants to California, sparking accusations of kidnapping from California Governor Gavin Newsom and the attorney general.