President Joe Biden urged Congress on Tuesday to pass a bipartisan package of border security measures and asylum restrictions, laying blame on former President Donald Trump for thwarting the effort on the Senate floor.
Speaking from the White House, Biden described the bill as “the most fair, humane reforms in our immigration system in a long time and the toughest set of reforms to secure the border ever.”
He continued by pointing out that the bill’s progress is stalling due to Donald Trump’s interference. Biden accused Trump of prioritizing political gain over solving the immigration issue, claiming that Trump has been pressuring Republican lawmakers to oppose the proposal.
Biden expressed disappointment in the apparent capitulation of some Republicans, urging them to stand firm and act in the best interest of the American people.
Biden Urges Congress to Pass Bipartisan Border Security Bill Despite Republican Opposition (Credits: Reuters)
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell and others acknowledged shortly after Biden’s remarks that the negotiated bill was effectively dead, despite earlier support from McConnell and key GOP negotiators.
During his address, Biden highlighted the provisions of the legislation, emphasizing its potential to enhance national security and border control.
He criticized Republicans for initially supporting the bill’s content only to retract their backing at a crucial juncture. Biden warned that failure to pass the package would result in clear accountability to the American public.
Biden emphasized the bill’s broader implications, including its provision of aid to Israel, Gaza, and Ukraine. He suggested that its passage could indirectly contribute to efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.
The Senate is set to vote on the bill’s procedural advancement, which includes provisions for aid to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. However, Republican senators anticipate that the measure will not garner sufficient support to proceed.
McConnell conceded that the bill is unlikely to become law despite praising the efforts of negotiators.
House Republican leaders echoed this sentiment, declaring the legislation dead upon arrival in the lower chamber. Trump’s public opposition to the bill has further complicated its prospects.
Prominent Senate Republicans, including John Barrasso, have voiced their opposition to the bill, signaling a reliance on the upcoming election to address the border crisis.
Since taking office, Biden has repeatedly called on Congress to address immigration reform. The negotiated deal emerged following Republican demands for funding for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan in exchange for stricter border security measures.
Democratic negotiator Chris Murphy expressed dismay over the bill’s demise, blaming Republicans for siding with Trump and prioritizing political gains over bipartisan solutions.
House Republicans plan to vote on a standalone Israel aid bill, facing challenges due to opposition from within their ranks and criticism from Democratic leadership.
Senator Johnson emphasized the need to address Israel and Ukraine funding separately, indicating ongoing concerns among Republicans regarding the administration’s strategy for Ukraine aid.
