Zephyr Teachout on Immigration

Immigrants are a pillar of our economy

One group affected deeply is undocumented students, who must routinely forego higher education because they cannot access the state's Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). Without papers, there is no aid.

Another basic problem confronting undocumented residents is that they cannot get a driver's license. This forces them into situations where they are breaking the law every time they drop-off a child at school or make a trip to the hardware store, and fosters a culture of fear of law enforcement.

Honor the dignity of all immigrants

Teachout said that in a state that typically focuses on "honoring the dignity of all immigrants" she is "disappointed" in Hochul. She described Hochul as someone "who has not traditionally been a friend of immigrant communities."