Des Moines, Iowa – In the run-up to the Iowa Caucuses, concerns about the situation at the southern border are gaining prominence among candidates and caucus-goers. Despite residing far from the border, GOP caucus-goers in Iowa believe they are impacted by the border situation, citing effects on the economy and drug trafficking.
Republicans in Washington are actively engaged in negotiations on a border deal, and candidates are emphasizing the issue on the campaign trail. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis criticized Republicans in Washington for what he sees as compromising on border issues with Democrats during a recent rally in West Des Moines.
Former President Trump also addressed the matter at a rally in Indianola, blaming President Biden for mishandling the border situation. Trump pledged to reverse every open border policy of the Biden administration and initiate the largest deportation operation in American history if he takes office again.
Nikki Haley, another candidate, has also focused on the border issue, drawing on her experience. Iowa Senator Joni Ernst, who has not endorsed a candidate yet, praised Haley’s experience on national security, border protection, and countering global adversaries.
Concerns about the southern border are shared by both Republicans and Democrats. Recent reports indicate that U.S. Border Patrol processed a record 225,000 migrants in the first 27 days of December. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has further complicated the situation by ordering the transportation of migrants to Democratic-controlled cities, citing these cities as sanctuary cities.
The border issue has become a significant topic nationally, with media coverage highlighting the challenges at the southern border. A CBS News poll revealed that 45% of Americans consider the situation a crisis, up from 38% in May. Another poll indicated that 80% of Iowa Republican caucus-goers find immigration and border security to be extremely important.
Some argue that the border situation affects various aspects of life, including economic concerns like inflation. Others see it as a matter of national security, expressing worries about potential terrorist threats. The Republican candidates are not only engaging with each other but also tackling the broader issues surrounding the southern border, making it a central theme in the lead-up to the Iowa Caucuses.
