Mayor Adams said that his comment, which drew criticism from the right and the left, was based on numerous conversations he has had with migrants.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams suggested Tuesday that immigrants could help solve the city’s lifeguard shortage because they’re “excellent swimmers,” a remark that sparked outrage among immigrant advocates and confusion among lifeguards.

Talking about the city’s shortage of lifeguards, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said migrants could fill the openings because they are “excellent swimmers.” He later noted that his comment was based on past conversations with migrants.