Prominent Latino lawmakers have voiced opposition to the direction of border security negotiations, raising concerns with the Biden administration over the lack of consideration for providing pathways to citizenship for longtime immigrants without proper documentation. Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla of California and Sen. Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico have privately expressed their concerns and questioned the direction of the talks. Despite their attempts at private warnings, the influential lawmakers have now taken their opposition public.
The negotiations, which are part of Biden’s $110 billion package for Ukraine, Israel, and other national security needs, come as the administration faces criticism over its handling of border and immigration issues and the financial toll that migrants have taken on Democratic cities and states. The issue is further complicated by the administration’s goal to address the record numbers of migrants at the border and its ties to providing support for Ukraine’s defense against Russia.
While the White House has sought to include provisions to legalize young immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children, Republicans have demanded several asylum restrictions that Democrats have resisted. At the same time, immigration advocates have been rallying opposition to proposed changes, which they argue could undermine the U.S.’ commitments to accepting people fleeing persecution and do little to stop people from making the dangerous journey to the border.
The potential for lasting impact on Biden’s support from Latino voters has also been raised, as prominent Latino lawmakers like Padilla have criticized concessions on border restrictions without benefiting undocumented essential workers or Dreamers. The border deal framework is expected to be pushed by Sunday, but further discussions are anticipated as disagreements persist.