President Biden made his first visit to the border in over a year, amidst record numbers of migrant crossings. Texas Congressman Henry Cuellar, representing a border district, has long advocated for a more aggressive approach to immigration. He believes Democrats should not cede the narrative to Republicans and stresses the importance of strong border security while respecting immigrant rights.
Cuellar acknowledges a shift in White House policy, from humanitarian parole to potential asylum restrictions reminiscent of the Trump era. He urges the President to take legal actions within the law to address the border crisis, emphasizing the need for increased funding for judges, asylum officers, and border patrol technology.
While some criticize the White House's sudden focus on immigration as an election strategy, Cuellar and other Democrats have long called for action on the issue. He emphasizes the need for Democrats to engage in discussions on border security to counter false narratives perpetuated by Republicans, such as Trump's inflammatory remarks about immigrants.
Cuellar highlights the importance of presenting a balanced conversation on border security that considers both security concerns and immigrant rights. He stresses the need for Democrats to address the issue head-on to provide a more nuanced perspective on immigration.
Overall, Cuellar advocates for a comprehensive approach to border security that addresses the root causes of migration while upholding the rights of immigrants. He calls for a shift towards the center to appeal to a broader voter base and ensure a more informed dialogue on immigration policy.
