Hamtramck’s Mayor Amer Ghalib met with prominent officials at the White House on August 20, 2023, to discuss federal funding and immigration relief for Yemeni residents. Ghalib’s discussions included Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, and Stephen Miller, the Deputy Chief of Staff for policy and Homeland Security Advisor. The mayor hopes these meetings will yield financial support to address his city’s pressing needs.
During his visit to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, Ghalib outlined several areas where Hamtramck requires assistance. “We asked for a lot of resources for Hamtramck,” he stated, noting that the officials were “very cooperative” and receptive to his requests. Ghalib sent a follow-up email detailing the city’s needs, expressing optimism about potential funding that could address “serious issues” related to finance, infrastructure, and public safety.
In a council meeting on August 26, Ghalib emphasized the importance of these meetings. “There are good signs that we will get some financial resources that would help us solve our city’s chronic issues,” he stated. While he did not specify the projects for which funding might be allocated, local officials and residents have pointed to urgent needs in infrastructure, housing, policing, and road repairs.
Hamtramck, which has a population of approximately 28,433, is grappling with high poverty rates. According to 2023 census data, about 38% of its residents live below the poverty line, with the rate rising to 48% among those under the age of 18. This contrasts sharply with the national average of 12.5%. Despite an increase in population and new businesses in the area from 2010 to 2020, the city continues to face significant economic challenges.
Ghalib also raised concerns about the situation for Yemeni immigrants, who have faced entry restrictions since a proclamation on June 4, 2023, suspended immigration for nationals of Yemen for 90 days. This has created difficulties for Yemeni Americans in the region, affecting family reunifications. Ghalib, who was born in Yemen, highlighted the importance of finding relief for this community. “Hopefully, we hear some good news regarding the immigration restrictions,” he remarked.
The mayor has a history of political engagement, having previously endorsed Donald Trump and participated in events supporting him. In March, Trump nominated Ghalib for the position of Ambassador to Kuwait, although confirmation hearings are still pending. Ghalib stated that he funded his recent trip to the White House himself, emphasizing his commitment to achieving results for his community before leaving office, as he is not running for reelection in the upcoming November mayoral election.
While Ghalib seeks to improve the situation for Hamtramck, the city has faced internal controversies, including the decision to terminate its city manager during the same council meeting where Ghalib discussed his White House visit. “We had to take some tough decisions today,” he explained, referring to the recommendations from an investigation.
Councilman Mohammed Hassan commended Ghalib for securing such meetings, noting the rarity of such opportunities for a city of Hamtramck’s size. “You make us proud,” he remarked, acknowledging the significance of the discussions held at the White House.
The future of Hamtramck remains uncertain, but Ghalib’s recent efforts reflect a proactive approach to addressing the city’s challenges and advocating for its residents.
