(DailyChive.com) – The Democratic Governor of Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer, is facing intense backlash over a controversial rental subsidy program aimed at aiding migrants, as critics raise safety concerns following a recent tragedy involving an illegal immigrant.
The program, highlighted by The Midwesterner, addresses housing challenges encountered by refugees and other newcomers while facilitating their integration into Michigan communities. Under this initiative, eligible households can receive up to $500 monthly rental assistance for 12 months, contingent upon immigration status and income level.
To qualify for assistance, applicants must hold specific immigration statuses, including refugees, asylees, special visa holders, victims of trafficking, and others. The subsidy varies based on household size, with single individuals or households of two eligible for up to $300 per month, reaching up to $500 for larger families.
Landlords receive payments through the SIGMA system, which offers options for electronic transfers or traditional checks. Disbursement occurs in three-month increments, with the initial payment released upon application approval, followed by subsequent installments.
However, critics, notably from Republican circles, criticize Governor Whitmer’s administration over the program’s implementation. They argue that it poses significant safety risks, particularly in the wake of a recent high-profile crime allegedly committed by an illegal immigrant.
Republican candidate Tudor Dixon challenged Whitmer in the 2022 gubernatorial race and accused the Governor of supporting President Biden’s open-border policies by providing monetary incentives to landlords without adequate vetting procedures. Dixon emphasized that such lax measures could endanger Michigan communities’ safety.
The tragic murder of Ruby Garcia has further fueled the debate. Brandon Ortiz-Vite, an individual deported to Mexico in 2020, now faces multiple charges, including felony murder and carjacking, following the discovery of Garcia’s body in downtown Grand Rapids earlier this month. The incident has intensified calls for stricter immigration enforcement and raised concerns about public safety.
Michigan GOP State Representative Andrew Fink echoed these sentiments, criticizing the Whitmer administration’s focus on housing subsidies over addressing broader issues such as population loss and immigration control. Fink, who recently sponsored legislation banning sanctuary cities, emphasized the need for robust border security and safer communities.
Despite repeated attempts at inquiry, the Governor’s office has yet to respond.
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