Douglas, Arizona: Vice President Harris Addresses Immigration Issues
On Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris made a significant appearance in Douglas, Arizona, marking her first visit to the southern border since she became the Democratic nominee for president. Speaking to a crowd at the Cochise County College Douglas Campus, Harris used the opportunity to discuss her plans for handling illegal immigration and to criticize former President Trump.
Firm Stance on Illegal Immigration
Harris stated firmly, “Those who cross our borders unlawfully will be apprehended and removed and barred from reentering for five years.” She emphasized the need for an orderly and secure immigration system, noting that repeat offenders should face more serious consequences. Crossing the border unlawfully without making an asylum request at a legal point of entry would result in a ban on receiving asylum, she said. “While we understand that many people are desperate to migrate to the United States, our system must be orderly and secure,” she added.
Critiquing Trump’s Record
During her speech, Harris reflected on her experience as a border state attorney general and claimed that Trump “tanked” a strong border security bill earlier in the year. “If it were law today, it would be producing results for the country,” she proclaimed. Harris assured the audience that, if elected President, she would bring that bill back and work diligently to solve immigration issues.
Harris expressed the importance of collaboration, stating, “I will reach across the aisle and embrace common-sense approaches to get the job done.” She highlighted the challenges posed by transnational gangs, drugs, and human trafficking, emphasizing the need for enhanced support for law enforcement.
Focus on Fentanyl
A prominent theme in Harris’s speech was addressing the crisis of fentanyl trafficking. She announced plans to increase technology at ports of entry to detect fentanyl and the chemicals used to manufacture it. “We will make sure our ports of entry, including airports and seaports, have additional state-of-the-art technology,” she asserted.
Harris also outlined plans to double resources for the Department of Justice to prosecute transnational criminal organizations and cartels, stating, “The United States is a sovereign nation, and I believe we have a duty to set rules at our border and to enforce them.”
A Nation of Immigrants
While emphasizing the need for border security, Harris also acknowledged America’s rich history as a nation of immigrants. She stated, “The United States has been enriched by generations of people who have come from every corner of the world to contribute to our country.”
In her remarks, she pointed out the failures of the Trump administration regarding immigration, claiming he did little to solve the existing problems at the border. “He did nothing to address an outdated asylum system and did not work with other governments to handle their challenges,” she stated.
Pathway to Citizenship for Dreamers
Harris pledged to find a pathway to citizenship for “Dreamers,” individuals who were brought to the U.S. as children. She emphasized the need to reject the false notion that securing the border and creating a humane immigration system are mutually exclusive. “We can, and we must do both,” she said.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimism in her speech, Harris’s visit came amid real concerns about immigration, as millions of illegal immigrants have entered the U.S. during her time in office, drawing criticism from Trump, Republicans, and the Border Patrol union. Ahead of her speech, the National Border Patrol Council expressed skepticism about her visit, suggesting it was “a slap in the face” to frontline workers.
The backdrop of her message highlighted polling showing that many Americans consider the southern border a serious issue, with opinions shifting in favor of Trump, particularly among younger voters and women.
As Vice President Harris continues her campaign, it is evident that immigration will remain a defining topic as the election approaches. Her push for stronger border policies, collaboration across party lines, and addressing the fentanyl crisis presents a multifaceted approach aimed at tackling one of the country’s most pressing challenges.
