Senate Unveils Controversial Border Security Deal Amid Record Migrant Crossings
Washington D.C., February 6, 2024 – After months of tense negotiations, the U.S. Senate has released a bipartisan border security bill that would enact the most sweeping changes to immigration enforcement in decades while also providing aid to key allies abroad.
Bipartisan bill would provide $20B for border enforcement and give president power to shut down border during crises
The controversial $118 billion proposal aims to address the ongoing crisis at the southern border, where migrant arrests have hit all-time highs under President Joe Biden’s administration. More than 6.3 million migrants have been detained illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border since January 2021.
“This bill makes our country safer, our border more secure, and treats people fairly and humanely while preserving legal immigration,” said President Biden in a statement. He urged Congress to swiftly pass the legislation.
Bill Would Give President New Authority to Shut Down Border During Surges
Under the bill, the president could fully shut down the border if average daily crossings exceed 5,000 per week. The shutdown would bar new asylum requests and lead to rapid deportation of migrants.
The president would also have the option to close the border if average daily crossings topped 4,000. Experts say this “radical departure” from current policy would end “catch and release” practices.
“It really shows how much the window has shifted,” said migration expert Adam Isacson.
The 370-page bill provides $20 billion for enhanced border security operations. It would fast-track asylum decisions within 180 days and limit eligibility. The legislation also authorizes hiring thousands more asylum officers to take over casework from backlogged immigration courts.
Fate of Bill Uncertain Due to Bipartisan Opposition
Despite President Biden’s support, the bill faces criticism from both parties. House Speaker Mike Johnson has deemed it “dead on arrival.” Some Senate Republicans say the asylum reforms don’t go far enough.
Meanwhile, progressive Democrats oppose the “severe limits” on asylum access. “It once again throws immigrants under the political bus,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal.
The Senate will vote on the bill this week. If it fails, Congress may try to pass Israel aid only. But that risks losing Democratic support without added Ukraine funding.
“Immigration is [Biden’s] Achilles’ heel,” said expert Tony Payan. The border crisis has emerged as a top issue for voters in the 2024 election. The bill reflects a continued rightward shift on immigration policy.
