Well, spank my backside and call me Sally.
Well, no, please don’t; but, I can’t help but express that old-fashioned reaction of disbelief regarding the news that President Joe Biden is considering new executive actions to crack down on record migration at the southern border after congressional Republicans this month blocked border legislation backed by the White House.
With this speculation, it appears Biden is taking page out of former President Donald Trump’s playbook regarding how to handle the migrant crisis at the border and the potential of restricting asylum for the thousands of migrants illegally entering the country every day.
This speculation comes after a deliberative bipartisan deal between Republicans and Democrats on cracking down on the border dissolved following Trump’s criticism and call for the legislation to be scrapped.
This development shows just how important the immigration issue is to American voters, and that Biden and his team are finally recognizing how strong this issue resonates with voters. And it also demonstrates Trump’s grip on the issue in many voters’ eyes.
The Biden administration has been highly critical of Trump’s similar tact on migration asylum during his presidency. However, many voters agree that the Biden administration has made the situation at the border worse.
Immigration is a key to the Biden reelection campaign. The president has said that executive orders aren’t enough and that Congress must provide the policy and resources do deal with the situation. Yet, even though he wants legislation on the issue, he can take executive action.
Its kind of a win-lose situation for the Biden administration. If the executive order goes along with the views of a significant portion of the electorate, it may be perceived as a positive move and enhance his standing.
However, with much of the Democrat base, which is reluctant to impose such policies, it could lead to criticism and negatively impact public perception. The response from political opponents and allies, if he takes such action, will be important in the 2024 election.
The electorate is tired of all the foot-dragging and posturing regarding the troublesome numbers of migrants entering the country each day. It’s a crisis of unmitigated proportions that presidents and both political parties for too long have been kicking down the road or throwing up obstacles to address.
It seems pretty simple to most Americans. The border cannot be as fluid as it has been. We are a nation of immigrants, but there must be more control and accountability on who is coming into the country. Most Americans welcome a reasonable immigration process that is timely and has the proper checks and balances in place.
Most Americans can’t understand why this issue has paralyzed our leaders for decades. Why won’t our leaders actually lead?
On immigration matters, it appears for now that the former president has the upper hand on this issue, particularly if Biden initiates an executive order.
At this point, I’m not sure how much the American public cares which political candidate wins or loses on this issue. Americans are ready for political leaders to stop playing games and to show leadership.
Cindy Allen 