During an appearance on Mobile radio FM Talk 106.5's "The Jeff Poor Show" on Thursday, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall talked about the ongoing Haitian migrant resettlement saga that is reportedly overwhelming a handful of communities in Alabama.
Marshall told listeners he was aware of the situation, noting it directly impacted Albertville, located in his home of Marshall County.
However, he also said his office was limited in its ability to address the situation.
"I think it continues to kind of blossom as far as what we're hearing," Marshall explained. "Like, as you know, I'm from Marshall County and so definitely familiar. I was up there just recently where people informed me a little bit about what was going on, and followed the news relating to the busts and what that meant, and at least have some clarity around it."
He continued, "But yet it's that broader issue, though, that I think that Americans have been struggling with and concerned about for quite some time, and that is this increased flow across the borders, whether they are paroled through a program that's being used in an improper way, whether they are seeking asylum, as we understand how many of the Haitians are. I mean, this is a significant issue. And not only does it involves communities understanding what it means for public safety, but this is a great strain on public resources.
"I mean, you saw, I don't know if the news just yesterday of where the Governor of Ohio is having to expend two-and-a-half million dollars for a local county in Ohio to deal with the services that are just needed to try to deal with a population that is struggling to get acclimated into this country," Marshall added. "And so, yeah, we are definitely learning more every day, being in touch with some of our federal partners to understand a little bit about why. But it's a legitimate concern, and I think it's something people need to pay attention to."
Jeff Poor is the editor in chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email jeff.poor@1819News.com or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
