Denver Allocates $356 Million to Migrant Support, Faces Budget Strain

Mayor Mike Johnston defends sanctuary city policies, risking legal consequences over opposition to deportation plans.

A Common Sense Institute report reveals Denver has spent $356 million on migrant-related expenses since December 2022, comprising 8% of the city's $4.4 billion 2025 budget.
The largest portion of the funds, $228 million annually, is allocated to education for over 16,000 migrant children enrolled in Denver metro schools.
Other expenditures include $49 million in uncompensated healthcare, as well as costs for housing, transportation, and childcare for approximately 45,000 migrants who have arrived in the city.
Mayor Mike Johnston has enacted budget cuts, including reductions in recreation center services and other city programs, to manage the financial strain caused by the influx.
Johnston has publicly opposed President-elect Trump's proposed mass deportation plans, stating his willingness to face jail time for protecting migrants, drawing criticism from federal officials.