During a week meant to celebrate their achievements, Democrats at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on Wednesday tackled one of their most significant political challenges: immigration. To counter Republican criticism, party leaders praised the Biden administration’s efforts and portrayed Vice President Kamala Harris as “tough as nails” on the issue.
Republican Criticism and the Border Issue
Former President Donald Trump and his Republican allies have consistently targeted the Biden administration’s handling of the border, labelling Harris as a “failed border czar.” Despite a record number of migrants being detained during Biden’s tenure, Democrats highlighted that illegal crossings have decreased for five consecutive months. They attributed this decline to recent administrative actions, including a June executive order from President Joe Biden that enables the deportation of migrants without processing their asylum claims.
Polls and Public Perception
A recent CBS poll revealed that 48% of likely voters believe border crossings will increase if Harris wins the presidency, while 72% think they will decrease under Trump. This perception has placed additional pressure on Democrats to defend their stance on immigration during the convention.
Defending Harris’ Record
On Wednesday, multiple DNC speakers defended Harris’ immigration record while criticizing Trump for obstructing a bipartisan border security deal that collapsed in Congress earlier this year. New York Congressman Tom Suozzi, advocating for stricter border security and asylum laws, acknowledged the broken state of the border but emphasized Harris’ commitment to bipartisan solutions. “Kamala Harris joyfully accepts the challenge to work across party lines, to secure our border, and to treat people like human beings,” Suozzi stated.
A Tougher Stance on Immigration
Democratic leaders, including Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy and California Representative Pete Aguilar, reinforced the party’s shift towards a stricter immigration message. Murphy, who led the failed bipartisan border security measure in Congress, praised Harris for her firm stance on illegal immigration and blamed Trump for hindering progress. “Trump killed that bill because he knew if we fixed the border, he’d lose his ability to divide us,” Murphy said.
Looking Ahead
As the convention progressed, Democrats showcased a video highlighting the stricter border policies proposed in the bill, which included funding for new border agents and technologies to combat fentanyl trafficking. Aguilar concluded, “Under President Harris, we can and will secure the border while building an America for all.”
