A feud over border security is derailing President Trump’s agenda in Congress. House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing opposition from hardliners who want to crack down on illegal immigration. Johnson had made a deal with these hardliners to bring a border security bill to the floor, but now he’s facing pressure from center-right Republicans who want to overhaul the US immigration system and make it easier for certain groups to gain lawful entry into the country.
Border Security Bill
The border security bill, known as HR 2, has not yet passed out of the Judiciary Committee. Conservatives, including House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, are demanding that the bill be brought to the floor. However, center-right Republicans argue that it makes no sense to use precious floor time on a messaging bill that would go nowhere in the Senate.
Some Republicans are pushing for a pathway to legal residency for illegal immigrants already living in the US, improving the visa program for farmworkers, and safeguarding the program for migrants who cannot safely return home to their countries. Others are opposed to these measures, and the debate is causing a rift within the party.
Consequences of the Feud
The feud over border security is having significant consequences for the House GOP. The party is struggling to pass key legislation, including a defense policy bill and appropriations bills. The infighting is also causing frustration among Republicans, with some accusing the hardliners of being ‘double digit IQ strategists’ who are ‘shooting ourselves in the foot.’
Despite the challenges, Johnson is trying to find a way forward. He has announced plans to move quickly to advance the elections overhaul bill through a complex process known as reconciliation. However, it’s unclear whether this plan will be successful, and the party remains divided on the issue of border security.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
