You know it’s bad when Democrats have to do something.
Arizona’s Democratic governor, Katie Hobbs, declared on Friday her decision to deploy National Guard soldiers to areas along the U.S.-Mexico border, leveling criticism at President Joe Biden’s administration for what she perceives as a failure to address migration issues adequately. Hobbs, whose state is a strategic focal point for Republicans, had previously voiced concern when a significant border crossing was closed to focus resources on combating illegal migration.
In her executive order on Friday, Hobbs expressed frustration with the federal government’s perceived inaction and asserted, “Yet again, the federal government is refusing to do its job to secure our border and keep our communities safe.” Taking matters into her own hands, she emphasized the need for resources and manpower to reopen the Lukeville crossing, manage migrant flows, and maintain a secure and orderly border.
Despite Hobbs’ repeated requests for assistance, the Biden administration has been criticized for not delivering the necessary resources to address the challenges faced by Arizona’s border. The closure of the Lukeville crossing has had repercussions on nearby communities, affecting both sides of the border and impacting families dependent on legal migration for economic survival.
Immigration has become a pivotal issue, particularly for Republicans gearing up for the upcoming general election. Hobbs and other Democrats in politically diverse “purple” states are vulnerable, as they navigate the delicate balance between addressing border security concerns and advocating for a more humane immigration system.
In the year leading up to September 2023, border patrol officers recorded a record-high 2.4 million encounters with migrants, both at official ports of entry and other points along the southern border. The situation remains complex for both parties, with former President Donald Trump’s strong rhetoric on immigration resonating with his rightwing base, while President Biden faces the challenge of satisfying calls for tougher controls and a more humane approach within his own party. As the issue of migration, both legal and otherwise, continues to dominate discussions, it is poised to play a significant role in the upcoming presidential election, featuring Biden and potentially Trump. The intricacies of addressing the root causes and implementing comprehensive reforms remain elusive for both sides of the political spectrum.