Has Kamala Harris Failed America on the Border Crisis?

Introduction

The recent debate surrounding Kamala Harris's role in addressing the border crisis has sparked intense discussions. Critics have argued that she has failed in her duties, while supporters defend her efforts. Regardless of the stance, understanding the context and historical background is crucial to evaluating her performance.

The Role and Expectations

It's a common criticism that Kamala Harris was given the job of solving the border crisis. However, it's important to highlight that only Congress can legislate solutions for border issues. The allegation that she was responsible for solving 'the border crisis' assumes an oversimplified understanding of government structures.

The Oppression and Poverty Roots

Harris was tasked with addressing the root causes of immigration, such as poverty and oppression in Central American right-wing dictatorships and Venezuela. For instance, she focused on finding solutions in countries like Guatemala, Honduras, and Ecuador. Harris has consistently worked towards economic development and political stability in these regions to reduce the influx of migrants.

Democrats and Republican Hurdles

During the Biden administration, Democrats in Congress worked with Republicans to craft a bipartisan immigration reform bill. This bill aimed to address both the root causes of immigration and the immediate border management challenges. However, it faced significant obstacles, primarily due to former President Trump's intervention.

Trump's Obstruction

Donald Trump refused to sign the bipartisan immigration reform bill, citing his political strategy to use the issue as a weapon against the Democrats. This move effectively stymied any progress, as Republicans in the Senate refused to vote on the bill, further complicating the situation.

Comparing Failures

When evaluating Kamala Harris's performance, it's essential to compare it with Trump's record. Trump had four years to address the border crisis, and he failed to make meaningful changes. In contrast, the Biden-Harris team has made genuine efforts to address the issue, even in the face of Republican obstruction.

The Wall and Its Aftermath

A recurring point made by critics is the failure of the border wall. The $25 billion allocated for the wall did not adequately address the root causes of immigration. Instead, a significant portion of the funds went to private contractors, often enriching them at the expense of the country's well-being. This revelation can be found in an unpublished memo from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which was leaked in March 2022.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the failure in addressing the border crisis lies more with the ineffective policies and political maneuvering of the previous administration. While there is room for improvement, Kamala Harris and the Biden-Harris team have demonstrated a commitment to finding sustainable solutions rather than promoting short-term political gains.