A growing number of Democrats are expressing dissatisfaction with President Joe Biden’s handling of the migrant crisis at the Southern border, as the ongoing situation creates chaos in cities across the United States. Prominent liberal politicians and an Independent office holder have voiced concerns about the administration’s approach and are demanding more action to address the issue.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey declared a state of emergency in her state due to the migrant crisis and criticized the federal government’s inaction. She called on the Biden administration to provide funding for the expenses incurred by the state in dealing with the crisis.
Chicago Alderman Raymond Lopez invited President Biden to visit overrun migrant camps in the city, urging him to witness the challenges firsthand and press for action to alleviate the situation.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who had previously expressed willingness to welcome migrants, criticized the federal government for not providing enough support to handle the humanitarian crisis in the city.
Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona criticized what he referred to as “dumb” border policies. Governor Katie Hobbs and Congressman Ruben Gallegos of Arizona have also been critical of Biden’s border policies, as the state experiences a surge in illegal border crossings.
In the Tucson region of Arizona, US Border Patrol encounters up to 1,900 migrants a day, reflecting a significant increase compared to previous months.
Senator Kyrsten Sinema, an Independent from Arizona, slammed the Biden Administration for its handling of the crisis and the impact it has on the state.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a Democratic presidential candidate, criticized Biden’s border policies and called for stronger border security.
Some Democrats also argue that Biden’s border security policies are overly restrictive and preventing asylum seekers from accessing protection.
In January, a group of over 70 liberal office holders sent Biden a letter criticizing his administration’s policies that restrict asylum access for migrants crossing the southern border.
While some Democrats criticize Biden for not doing enough to address the migrant crisis, others argue that his policies are too stringent and limit the ability of vulnerable individuals to seek asylum. This diversity of viewpoints within the Democratic Party reflects the complexity and challenges surrounding the ongoing border situation.