Denver Mayor Mike Johnston faced criticism this week after publicly stating he is “not bothered” by the influx of illegal immigrants in the city, despite growing frustration among local residents over the impact on public services, housing, and city budgets.
During a Friday interview on Colorado Public Radio’s Colorado Matters, Johnston responded to concerns about illegal immigration by defending those who enter the United States unlawfully, describing their actions as driven by “survival and desperation.”
His comments drew sharp reactions from taxpayers and community members who have voiced concerns about rising costs and city services being diverted to support individuals not lawfully present in the country.
When asked by co-host Ryan Warner about the frustration many Denver residents feel about undocumented migrants using public resources, Johnston said, “I’m not bothered by that.”
He explained his perspective by referencing his time as a school principal and sharing the story of a former undocumented student whose family fled cartel violence.
Hellbound and Down 