Vice President Criticizes Republican Opposition and Calls for Comprehensive Solutions
Vice President Kamala Harris has committed to visiting the US-Mexico border as she emphasizes the need to address the underlying causes of migration. Her remarks come amid increasing pressures from Republican critics and right-wing media to make this visit, which she has labeled as “shortsighted.” Harris argues that merely responding to border issues without confronting the realities in migrants’ home countries is ineffective.
Speaking from Mexico, she stated, “The problem at the border, in large part if not entirely, stems from the problems in these countries.” Harris highlighted that most individuals do not wish to leave their homes unless they are fleeing danger or lack basic necessities to support their families. She insists that to effectively manage the migration crisis, it is essential to understand and address these root causes.
Harris faced backlash for her dual message of offering “hope” to Guatemalans while advising potential migrants against making the perilous journey to the US. During a press conference in Guatemala City with President Alejandro Giammattei, she urged, “Do not come. Do not come,” emphasizing the goal of helping individuals find hope in their home countries.
These comments precede a forthcoming report from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) detailing progress on family reunification for thousands of families affected by the Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” policy. A DHS task force reported that 1,786 children have been reunified with their families, but an estimated 2,127 children may still remain separated. Harris condemned the previous administration’s policies and pledged to expedite efforts to reunite families.