In a controversial incident that has sparked a heated debate over immigration policies, several buses carrying migrants made brief stops at four train stations in New Jersey over the weekend. The drivers were dropping off individuals at train stations across the state so they could continue their journey from Texas to New York City. The buses arrived at train stations in Edison, Fanwood, Trenton, and Secaucus before the migrants boarded trains bound for Manhattan.

This situation arose amid the implementation of new rules by New York City's mayor, stipulating that such buses can only make drop-offs on weekdays and must provide 32 hours of notice to the authorities. It is believed that the bus drivers were attempting to evade these regulations through their choice of stops in New Jersey.

Seth Kaper-Dale, the leader of the Reformed Church of Highland Park, played a prominent role in helping settle 4,000 immigrants in New Jersey last year. He emphasizes the necessity for townships and the state to be adequately prepared for the arrival of more immigrants by bus. Kaper-Dale argues that these individuals have already gone through designated points of entry and possess proper documentation, which permits them to stay in the country and attend scheduled immigration appointments.

However, not all officials are supportive of the migrants' presence in New Jersey. Edison Mayor Sam Joshi expressed a strong stance against them, stating, "I want to make it clear that our position here in Edison Township is that they're not welcome here, they are illegal, and they belong on the other side of the border." Mayor Joshi even directed his police department and emergency management team to charter a bus to send the migrants back to the border, although this action would contradict the migrants' legal entry and processing at the border.

The remarks made by Mayor Joshi surprised Seth Kaper-Dale, who believes that New Jersey should take pride in being the fifth-highest recipient of immigrants in the United States. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive systems that direct migrants to organizations capable of providing them with necessary services. Kaper-Dale highlights the significant increase in immigration to New Jersey, particularly from Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Cuba, in recent years.

The incident at the train stations underscores the ongoing debate surrounding immigration policies and raises questions about the responsibilities of states and townships in accommodating and supporting incoming migrants. As the discussions escalate, it remains to be seen how New Jersey and its local communities will handle the increasing influx of individuals seeking a new life within the state's borders.