Biden's New Immigration Order Sparks Debate Ahead of 2024 Elections
United States President Joe Biden signed a significant presidential order restricting asylum access for immigrants caught illegally crossing the US-Mexico border. The order, which took effect at midnight, stipulates that most illegal immigrants can be deported or returned swiftly to Mexico. Exceptions are made for unaccompanied children, individuals with serious medical or safety threats, and victims of trafficking. This move highlights Biden’s recently toughened stance on immigration, an issue expected to be pivotal in the upcoming November 5 elections.
Biden clarified that while this action aims to regain control of the border, requests for asylum through legal channels will still be permitted. He stated, “This action will help us gain control of our border and restore order to the process.” Despite the new restrictions, Biden criticized some of Trump’s previous policies, including the separation of immigrant families and derogatory comments about immigrants.
Political Implications and Public Opinion
The political landscape remains sharply divided on immigration. Republicans have criticized Biden for being politically motivated and argue that the executive order is insufficient to tackle the problem. Meanwhile, Democrats and pro-immigrant organizations have expressed disappointment, accusing Biden of adopting Trump-like policies. Voters’ opinions seem to lag behind Biden’s policy shifts; a Reuters poll revealed a 17% preference for Trump over Biden on immigration matters.
An additional poll by NBC News found that only 30% of American voters approve of Biden's management of immigration and borders. Among Latinx voters—a critical demographic for the Democratic party—support is also wavering. Many discontented voters blame Biden for not fulfilling promises of legalization paths for immigrants living in the US without legal status, despite numerous bipartisan efforts being blocked by Republicans.
Voter Sentiment in Key States
In battleground states like Arizona, changes in voter sentiment among key demographics could swing the election. Former political supporters, including Arturo Garino, ex-mayor of Nogales, have criticized the current administration. Additionally, various polls indicate a growing Latino alignment with GOP calls for greater border control, although there remains robust support for granting asylum to refugees fleeing crime and violence.
The Biden administration faces the challenge of re-engaging undecided Latino voters. Clarissa Martínez de Castro, vice president of UnidosUS Latino Vote Initiative, argues that failing to offer compelling counter-narratives to Republican positions leaves a critical gap. While Trump’s rhetoric has an appeal based on conservative values, many Latino voters still show a preference for Democrats on immigration, though the stark contrast seen in previous elections has diminished.
- The implications of Biden’s new immigration policies extend beyond political debates. On the ground, people like Enrique Lucero, director of migrant affairs in Tijuana, Mexico, warn that shelters may become overwhelmed as immigrants get stuck waiting or retracing their steps. Lucero voiced concerns over the well-being of those who might end up on the streets or become prey to traffickers.
- Additionally, the Biden administration has been intensifying measures to make the asylum application process more stringent. Top US officials have pointed to increased Mexican enforcement as a contributing factor to the recent drop in illegal border crossings. Yet, how long Mexico will sustain that level of cooperation when Claudia Scheinbaum assumes presidency on October 1 remains uncertain.
- Voter sentiment remains a significant factor. People like Sergio Watson, a small trucking business owner from Sinaloa, Mexico, who legally immigrated to the US, express a nuanced stance on immigration. Despite economic motivations being primary, border issues are also highly influential. Similarly, Luis Reyes, an Arizona State University student from a mixed-status family, acknowledges tensions but highlights Biden's record compared to Trump's.
