Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar spoke with Digital along the Rio Grande after touring a section of the southern border with a bipartisan congressional delegation. Cuellar, who represents an area that is nearly 80% Hispanic, is warning fellow Democrats, including President Biden, to prepare for border security to be a top election issue in the 2024 cycle. Standing along the Rio Grande in Hidalgo, Texas, Cuellar emphatically told Digital that the situation at the southern border will “absolutely” be on voters’ minds this year.
Cuellar’s concerns are supported by recent polls, which found that eight in 10 voters consider the situation at the southern border either an emergency or a major problem. Recognizing this, Cuellar believes that it is in President Biden’s best interest politically to come up with a solution on border security.
As part of a bipartisan congressional delegation, Cuellar’s group of lawmakers toured sections of the border and met with border and immigration officials. The trip aimed to foster bipartisanship and find common ground on border reform. Cuellar emphasized the importance of bipartisan negotiations and expressed hope that a deal could be reached.
Cuellar also highlighted the need for reforms on what constitutes legal asylum, an issue that some Democrats have been reluctant to address. However, Cuellar noted that there is a growing shift among Democrats, with more members willing to consider changes. He believes that with enough support from both Democrats and Republicans, progress can be made on this issue.
In the midst of negotiations on border reform, the White House and Senate are also working on a deal in exchange for GOP support for Biden’s $106 billion supplemental funding request for Ukraine, Israel, and other issues.
Cuellar’s warning to Democrats and President Biden underscores the importance of addressing the situation at the southern border. With the support of the American public and the recognition of the issue’s political significance, it is crucial for the administration to find a solution that ensures border security while maintaining a fair and just immigration system.
Elizabeth Elkind is a reporter for Digital focused on Congress as well as the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and politics. Her previous digital bylines have been seen at Daily Mail and CBS News. For the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail, exclusive interviews, and more political content, follow her on Twitter at @liz_elkind and send tips to [email protected].
