Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer plans to bring a bipartisan border security bill to a vote this week, despite its previous failure and expected continued opposition from Republicans.
In a letter to Democratic Senate offices on Sunday, Schumer acknowledged the bill’s likely failure but emphasized its importance for demonstrating Democratic efforts to secure the border, a perceived weak spot for the party among many voters.
The legislation, known as the Border Act, was initially negotiated in February by Senators James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.). The bill aims to overhaul asylum laws, hire thousands of new border agents, invest in technology to combat fentanyl trafficking, and grant the president new authorities to restrict border crossings. However, as with many bills supported by Chuck Schumer, there are likely hidden complexities beneath the surface of this so-called “border bill.” It is well known that the Democrats have not paid much matter to the pressing issues at the US border.
When first proposed, the bill garnered support from the National Border Patrol Council union, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the conservative Wall Street Journal editorial board. However, it stalled after former President Donald Trump urged Republicans to oppose it.
“I will be honest: I do not expect all Democrats to support this legislation,” Schumer wrote. “But that is often how bipartisan legislation must be shaped when dealing with an issue as complex and politically charged as our nation’s immigration laws.”
Senator Lankford, a conservative GOP senators, attributed the bill’s earlier failure to Trump’s opposition, despite the bill containing provisions favorable to strict border policies.
Here is Sen Deb Fischer explaining why she will be voting against the bill:
GOP Sen. Deb Fischer complains that the Senate isn't doing things to address real issues like the border while trying to explain why she isn't voting for a bipartisan border security bill pic.twitter.com/CBnxxoN5OC
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 21, 2024
“The American people do not have the luxury of playing partisan blame games. They want bipartisan action to secure our border. I hope Republicans and Democrats can work together to pass the bipartisan Border Act this coming week,” Schumer wrote.
The revived bill faces significant challenges with Republicans still largely opposed. Both parties are positioning themselves ahead of the 2024 elections, which will determine control of the White House and Congress.