As the 2020 presidential election approaches, the issue of immigration has once again taken center stage. With President Trump’s constant rhetoric about an “invasion” at the border, the Democratic candidates are facing a tough challenge in countering this right-wing propaganda. However, one candidate, Senator Kamala Harris, has taken a different approach by trying to flank Republicans on immigration from the right. But this strategy has faced criticism from prominent Democrats living near the US-Mexico border, who are urging Harris to change course.
Harris, a former prosecutor and California’s first black senator, has been gaining momentum in the race for the Democratic nomination. However, her stance on immigration has raised concerns among some members of her own party. Instead of taking a strong stance against Trump’s anti-immigrant policies, Harris has been trying to appeal to moderate and conservative voters by positioning herself as a tough-on-immigration candidate.
This strategy was evident in her recent visit to New Hampshire, where she stated that she would not support decriminalizing illegal border crossings, a stance that puts her at odds with some of her fellow Democratic candidates. Harris also emphasized the need for border security and proposed increasing funding for border technology and personnel.
While Harris may believe that this approach will help her gain support from moderate and conservative voters, it has faced backlash from prominent Democrats living near the US-Mexico border. These individuals, who have firsthand experience with the realities of immigration, have urged Harris to change her stance and take a more progressive approach.
One of these Democrats is Congressman Joaquin Castro, who represents a district in Texas that includes part of the US-Mexico border. In a recent interview, Castro expressed his disappointment with Harris’ stance on immigration, stating that it was “disappointing and concerning” that she was not willing to decriminalize illegal border crossings. He also emphasized the need for a more humane and compassionate approach to immigration, stating that “we should not be treating people who are seeking refuge and asylum as criminals.”
Castro is not alone in his criticism of Harris. Other prominent Democrats living near the border, including Congressman Filemon Vela and former Congressman Beto O’Rourke, have also expressed their concerns about Harris’ stance on immigration. They believe that her approach is not only out of touch with the realities of immigration but also goes against the values of the Democratic Party.
The criticism from these Democrats is a wake-up call for Harris and her campaign. As the daughter of immigrants, Harris should understand the importance of a fair and just immigration system. Instead of trying to appeal to conservative voters, she should be standing up for the rights of immigrants and challenging Trump’s harmful policies.
Moreover, Harris’ approach to immigration also goes against the current trend within the Democratic Party. Many of her fellow candidates, including Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, have come out in support of decriminalizing illegal border crossings. This stance is also supported by a majority of Democratic voters, who believe that the current immigration system is broken and in need of reform.
It is time for Harris to listen to the voices of those living near the US-Mexico border and take a more progressive stance on immigration. As the daughter of immigrants and a senator from a diverse state like California, she has the opportunity to be a strong advocate for immigrant rights. By changing her approach and taking a stand against Trump’s anti-immigrant policies, Harris can solidify her support among Democratic voters and show that she is a true leader who stands up for what is right.
In conclusion, instead of trying to flank Republicans on immigration from the right, the Harris campaign should listen to the concerns of prominent Democrats living near the US-Mexico border and change course. By taking a more progressive stance on immigration, Harris can show that she is a true champion for immigrant rights and gain the support of Democratic voters who believe in a fair and just immigration system. It is time for Harris to take a stand and show that she is the leader that America needs in these challenging times.
