It’s a Hard Sell for President Biden’s Immigration Policies in This Border County

President Biden’s recent executive order on immigration has sparked mixed reactions in Cochise County, Arizona, a conservative stronghold grappling with the challenges of the U.S.-Mexico border. The order, which aims to address some asylum provisions, has left both Republicans and Democrats in the area skeptical.

Mayor Donald Huish of Douglas, a Republican, expressed mixed feelings about the order, stating, “On one hand, I am happy to get any help we can get. On the other, I wish they would just fix the problem.” Similarly, Kathleen Gomez, a Democrat turned Republican running for the county’s board of supervisors, called it “a Band-Aid on a severed artery.”

The response in Cochise County highlights the political headache the border poses for President Biden as he navigates a restrictive immigration approach. While some commend him for addressing concerns, others criticize him for playing into right-wing politics.

Despite the order’s attempt to curb illegal crossings and address immigration issues, residents remain uncertain about its effectiveness. Some worry about the impact on voter turnout, especially among younger Latinos, a demographic crucial for Democratic victories in states like Arizona.

As the debate over immigration continues in Cochise County, residents like Esgardo Torres, a lifelong Democrat, express concerns about enhanced border security measures and their impact on border residents. The county remains on edge, with the recent executive order leaving many questioning its implications for their community.