The White House and top congressional Democrats are strategizing on bolstering border security measures ahead of the first presidential debate next month. Discussions include the possibility of implementing a sweeping executive order to limit migrants’ asylum-seeking abilities, revisiting a bipartisan border bill in the Senate, and potentially sending President Joe Biden to the border, according to sources familiar with the talks.
With border arrests decreasing this year, the White House aims to capitalize on the temporary relief from a contentious issue. However, officials are preparing for a potential surge in border crossings this summer and are considering policy changes to deter migrants and reassure skeptical voters of their commitment to tightening immigration at the border.
The administration is also in talks with Senate Democrats to revive a failed border policy package and is exploring new guidance and regulations to expedite court cases for migrants and reject ineligible asylum seekers. Additionally, visa restrictions have been imposed on over 250 members of the Nicaraguan government to combat irregular migration.
As the situation at the US-Mexico border remains complex, the White House is gearing up for potential challenges, including an anticipated rise in border crossings and staff departures. Uncertainty looms with Mexico’s upcoming election, raising questions about future border cooperation. Despite ongoing efforts, the administration continues to face criticism and lag behind in polls on border security compared to the previous administration.