Senate Republicans and the White House are engaged in discussions regarding potential border policy changes to be included in a supplemental spending package. The talks, which include border funding and aid for Israel and Ukraine, have shown progress but have also highlighted sharp disagreements between Republicans and Democrats.
One of the key points of contention is the contents of the border funding section, with Republicans pushing for stricter limits on initial asylum screenings and the use of parole. House Republican leadership has called for the inclusion of a broader package passed earlier this year, while Senate Republicans have shown openness to a more limited package.
President Biden has expressed openness to “significant compromises” and the Biden administration is reportedly considering a new Title 42-style authority, which would allow for the rapid expulsion of migrants at the southern border. The administration is also open to a nationwide expansion of expedited removal, currently only used at and near the border, and the mandatory detention of certain migrants during the asylum process.
While these proposals have sparked anger from left-wing Democrats, Republicans have responded positively, albeit cautiously. Republican Senator John Cornyn has praised the White House for finally getting engaged in the discussions but expressed concerns about the limited time remaining in the year to reach a conclusion. Senator Thom Tillis has expressed openness to the idea of implementing a Title 42 authority and has urged lawmakers to stay in Washington until a deal is reached.
Lawmakers are scheduled to leave for their winter break soon, and the lack of a written agreement from the White House has raised some doubts. However, several lawmakers have expressed optimism about the progress made so far.
It remains uncertain whether an agreement reached in the Senate would gain the approval of the House, which has been considering more expansive moves on border policies. Democrats in both chambers have criticized the reported proposals, accusing the Biden administration of returning to Trump-era policies and jeopardizing national security.
Meanwhile, overwhelmed officials at the border continue to encounter a high number of migrants. Tuesday saw over 10,000 migrants encountered in a single day, further highlighting the urgency of finding a solution to the border crisis.
This article was contributed by Tyler Olson and The Associated Press. Adam Shaw, a politics reporter for Digital, primarily covering immigration and border security, provided additional reporting.
(Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of [News Outlet].)
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