Harris outlines immigration strategy, promising stricter border security measures

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Vice President Kamala Harris recently announced her intentions to strengthen security at the U.S.-Mexico border and reduce illegal crossings. Speaking to supporters at Cochise College in southeastern Arizona, she emphasized her commitment to going beyond current measures implemented by President Joe Biden to address the ongoing immigration crisis.

During her speech, Harris stated, "I will do more to secure our border, to reduce illegal border crossings. Those who cross our borders unlawfully will be apprehended and removed and barred from reentry for five years." This announcement comes as Harris faces the challenge of addressing a significant rise in illegal immigration during the Biden-Harris administration.

Harris confirmed that she would uphold Biden's recent policies, which have reportedly led to a decline in illegal crossings this year. She outlined stricter measures, including denying asylum to individuals who fail to request it at designated points of entry. “If someone does not make an asylum request at a legal point of entry and instead crosses our border unlawfully, they will be barred from receiving asylum,” she said.

Additionally, Harris pledged to revive a bipartisan Senate border bill that stalled last winter, stating her commitment to reintroducing and signing it into law. However, Senator James Lankford (R-OK) criticized her claims, asserting she was not involved in the original negotiations for the bill, which included funding for advanced technology to combat fentanyl trafficking and increasing federal law enforcement personnel.

In her visit to Tucson, Harris toured the port of entry, where inspections are conducted on vehicles entering from Mexico. She addressed the issue of fentanyl entering the United States, noting its origins in China and the role of Mexican criminal groups in its distribution. Harris reaffirmed the administration's demands for China to take action against companies manufacturing precursor chemicals used in fentanyl production.

The vice president's remarks come amid scrutiny regarding her previous handling of immigration issues and her first visit to the border in over three years. While addressing concerns from various groups about illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking, she highlighted the need for increased technology and resources to support federal agents in their efforts.

As immigration continues to be a critical topic for voters, Harris aims to reshape her public image by advocating for a more centrist approach to the issue while outlining her plans to enhance border security.