Wolf: Pennsylvania Will Welcome Syrian Refugees; NJ Says No

PHILADELPHIA- WTXF - Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf broke with several of his fellow governors this week, announcing Monday that the state will not block Syrian refugees.

"To assist the settlement of families fleeing the humanitarian crisis in Syria, the Federal Government coordinates with local charitable organizations in Pennsylvania and other states. Pennsylvania will continue working with the Federal Government to ensure that all individuals have gone through the proper screening process," the Governor said in a statement.

"Governor Wolf wants Pennsylvania to continue to build on its rich history of accepting immigrants and refugees from around the world but he is also committed to protecting Pennsylvanians and will work with the Federal Government to ensure it is taking every precaution necessary in screening those families coming into the country."

Meanwhile, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie took the opposite tack, in a letter to President Obama.

"The threat posed by New Jersey by ISIS is very real," the letter said. "I write to inform you that I will not accept any refugees from Syria in the in the wake of the deadly terrorist attack in Paris."

Philadelphia Mayor-Elect Jim Kenney issued a statement praising Wolf's decision.

"Philadelphia has a long history of being a city of refuge for those in need-welcoming Quakers, Irish immigrants, Sudanese refugees and many others," Kenney said. "I applaud Governor Wolf's decision to work with the federal government to properly screen and resettle Syrian refugees in Pennsylvania. In keeping with our city's history, I look forward to working with him and welcoming refugees seeking a safe home to Philadelphia."