Texas Governor Greg Abbott drew attention on the eve of Election Night by claiming he would “impose a 100 percent tariff” on anyone moving to the Lone Star State from New York City.
The post went viral, framing potential New Yorkers as if they were imported goods and the comment was linked to the New York City mayoral race, where Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani leads the polls.
Abbott‘s quip referenced implied concern over New Yorkers relocating who might oppose Mamdani’s platform, as the 34-year-old is poised to become the city’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor – a scary prospect for white Republicans.
His campaign includes universal childcare, free public transit, and expanded affordable housing, and these progressive proposals have drawn strong criticism from conservative figures in Texas and beyond.
The mayoral candidate has faced political and personal attacks during his campaign. Critics cited his positions on law enforcement and his statements regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Despite this, Mamdani won the Democratic primary over former governor Andrew Cuomo, who now runs as an Independent after resigning in 2021 amid multiple accusations of sexual misconduct and harassment.
Experts warn of a potential migration of New Yorkers if Mamdani wins, and Abbott’s 100 percent tariff comment appears to play on these fears rather than outline an enforceable policy.
Despite criticism, Mamdani continues to gain support as a reform-minded candidate promising substantial change as his platform appeals to progressive and moderate voters, emphasizing social welfare programs, housing, and transportation improvements.
Polling indicates a tight race, with voting booths closing at 21:00 ET on November 4, ultimately determining whether conservative anxieties about potential out-of-state migration come to fruition but regardless, analysts say it reflects partisan tension rather than a credible legal plan.
Legal experts note Abbott‘s proposed tariff would violate the U.S. Constitution. Article I, Section 10 prohibits states from imposing taxes or tariffs on goods from other states as courts have ruled that states cannot penalize citizens for relocating between states.
Economists also add such a measure would be impossible to enforce, as it could not legally discriminate against individuals from other states so Abbott’s remark is widely seen as political theater rather than a feasible policy.
But it highlights Republican concerns about Mamdani‘s left-wing platform as other Texas politicians have made similar attacks. U.S. Rep. Brandon Gill told Mamdani to “go back to the Third World,” referencing a video of him eating with his hands.
Additionally, senator Ted Cruz also criticized Mamdani’s “anti-Israel” statements and called him a “communist.” Cruz is reported to have received over $1.8 million from pro-Israel sources since 1990, according to opensecrets.com.
