Will Biden be able to leverage Trump’s signature issue of immigration against him?

President Biden’s recent decision to temporarily seal the border to most asylum seekers has sparked intense debate within his party and drawn comparisons to former President Donald Trump’s policies. This move, which marks the most restrictive immigration measure by a modern Democratic president, has divided Democrats but also aligned Biden with a significant portion of the public as the issue of immigration takes center stage in an election year.

The confluence of hyperbolic rhetoric from Republicans, led by Trump, and a surge in illegal border crossings has elevated immigration and border security as a top concern for voters on both sides of the political spectrum. Biden’s executive order, effective as of Wednesday, is expected to face legal challenges, but his allies believe it will benefit them politically by portraying him as willing to take action that Trump had blocked earlier.

While some Democrats have criticized Biden’s decision, others see it as a necessary step to address the ongoing migrant crisis and secure the border. The attention on the border issue has influenced public opinion, with polls showing that a significant number of voters view immigration as the top problem facing the country.

Despite the political risks involved, Biden and his allies are confident that their approach to immigration will resonate with voters and help neutralize Trump’s attacks on the issue. By taking concrete steps to address illegal immigration, they hope to demonstrate their commitment to fixing the border while also appealing to Hispanic voters who see the situation as a crisis.

Overall, Biden’s decision reflects a shift in his administration’s approach to immigration and border security, signaling a willingness to address a complex and divisive issue that has long been a focal point of political debate.