With a potential government shutdown looming, Congressional leaders and the two leading presidential contenders, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, are focusing on the southern border. Both Biden and Trump are scheduled to visit Texas border towns on Thursday in separate appearances.
The top four Republicans and Democrats in the House and Senate met with Biden to address differences over the potential shutdown. House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the importance of addressing America’s needs, particularly the open border crisis.
However, a bipartisan Senate border bill recently collapsed after the House Speaker indicated he would not support it in his chamber.
Trump and Biden (Credits: AP News)
Illegal immigration has become a central theme of the 2024 election, highlighted by the dueling visits of the two presidential frontrunners. A prolonged government shutdown would further impede any border-related legislative action.
Speaker Johnson believes that the President can take executive action to address the border crisis and urged immediate action. However, Democrats are skeptical that administrative actions alone can solve the border issues, emphasizing the need for legislative measures.
A new Gallup poll released today shows that a majority of Americans view immigration as the top problem facing the country, marking the first time since 2019 that immigration has topped the list.
Despite the challenges, both parties expressed optimism that a shutdown could be avoided and discussions on the border issue would continue. The situation at the southern border remains a critical issue in American politics, with both sides recognizing the need for action.
