The leader of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC), Rep. Nanette Barragan, has strongly criticized the Senate’s new border security and foreign aid package, suggesting that it may exacerbate issues at the southern border rather than resolving them.
Barragan acknowledged that while there are some positive aspects to the bill, there are many provisions that do not align with their values. She expressed concerns that the bill could remove due process safeguards from the asylum system, potentially worsening the situation at the southern border. Moreover, she noted that the bill fails to include protections or legal pathways for Dreamers and the broader undocumented community living in the United States.
In her statement, Barragan drew a parallel to the importance of having the Congressional Black Caucus at the table when negotiating civil rights or criminal justice bills, highlighting the CHC’s role as a lead voice in Congress on immigration issues.
The Senate deal, which enjoys support from President Joe Biden, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, faces significant challenges in the House. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and House Speaker Mike Johnson are unlikely to garner support from their respective House members for different reasons. House Republicans argue that the bill may encourage illegal immigration, while Johnson has labeled it “dead on arrival.”
Jeffries criticized House Republicans for opposing the bill before even seeing its text, accusing them of being heavily influenced by former President Donald Trump. He argued that House Republicans are prioritizing loyalty to Trump over finding real solutions for the American people.
While Barragan did not explicitly state that her caucus would unanimously vote against the Senate bill, she expressed skepticism about its prospects. She emphasized the need to address challenges at the southern border and provide critical funding for allies without accepting what she views as detrimental immigration policies that could set back comprehensive immigration reform efforts for years.
In summary, Rep. Nanette Barragan and the CHC have raised concerns about the Senate’s border security and foreign aid package, citing potential negative consequences and a lack of protections for certain immigrant groups. The bill faces significant opposition in the House, with divisions along partisan lines.
