Biden's Border Backflip

Despite previously stating limitations on his authority to act unilaterally on immigration issues, President Joe Biden is reportedly gearing up to issue an executive order that could effectively shut down the U.S. southern border. This comes as a stark contradiction to his earlier assertions, revealing a troubling inconsistency in his administration’s stance.

Inside the Executive Order

The potential executive order, which was first brought to light by the New York Post, introduces specific thresholds for closing the border:

• Daily Encounters
  The border would be subject to closure if encounters with illegal immigrants reach 4,000 per day on average over a week.

• Escalation Clause
  Should encounters average 5,000 per day or spike to 8,500 on any given day, border closure becomes mandatory.

This directive mirrors provisions from a failed Senate immigration bill, indicating a shift towards more stringent measures as public pressure mounts.

Context of Contradiction

The Biden administration has consistently pointed fingers at Congress, blaming legislative inaction for the ongoing immigration crisis. Yet, this executive move suggests that presidential powers were always sufficient to address border security issues, contradicting the narrative pushed by the White House. Republicans have long argued that the administration holds enough authority to enforce stricter border controls, a stance that this new action seems to vindicate.

Public Opinion and the Political Landscape

Public sentiment on immigration is increasingly becoming a sore point for Biden, particularly in key swing states. According to a recent New York Times/Sienna poll, immigration ranks as the second most crucial issue to voters, right behind economic concerns. Yet, Biden's approval ratings on handling immigration are dismal, sitting at just over 33%, with a disapproval rate hovering around 63%, as per the Real Clear Politics average.

The situation at the border has indeed reached a critical point. Jeh Johnson, former Homeland Security secretary under Obama, stated that an average of 1,000 daily encounters used to signify a bad day. Now, with numbers quadrupling that benchmark, the crisis is undeniable.

The Path Forward

This development poses a significant test for President Biden's credibility and leadership. As the administration grapples with escalating challenges at the border, the decision to potentially close it via executive order could be seen as a desperate measure to regain control and public trust.

As voters, we must stay informed and critically evaluate our leaders' decisions and their impacts on our national security and humanitarian responsibilities. Share this article to spread awareness about the evolving situation at the border, and consider subscribing to our newsletter for more critical insights and updates.