Securing the Border: Job No. 1
Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have made a pledge to prioritize border security if elected to the White House. Speaking at separate town halls in Iowa, both candidates expressed their concerns about the current state of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Haley’s Strong Words
In Altoona, Iowa, Haley delivered a passionate speech to the crowd, stating, “I truly have run out of things to say about the border. This is a dereliction of duty. It’s horrific to see what’s happening on the southern border and the northern border.” She emphasized that securing the border is the top priority.
DeSantis’ National Emergency
One hour away in Oskaloosa, Iowa, DeSantis echoed Haley’s sentiments. He declared, “We’re pretty busy on day one because there’s a lot that we need to do. One, we’re going to declare the border to be a national emergency.”
Voters Demand Border Security
A recent poll revealed that 8 out of 10 voters consider immigration and border security to be either an emergency or a major problem. Donna Cox of Cleveland, a potential GOP voter, emphasized that border security is her number one priority when choosing a candidate. Cox expressed concerns about not only Latin American migrants but also those from the Middle East and China, describing the situation at the border as “chaotic, uncontrolled, open, free-for-all, dangerous.” Another voter, “David” from Oskaloosa, called the border situation “the worst it’s ever been” and urged the government to take action.
Effects Felt Across the Nation
During a press conference in Corydon, Iowa, DeSantis highlighted the far-reaching consequences of the southern border crisis. He emphasized that even rural communities far from the border are experiencing the effects, particularly concerning drug trafficking. Sheriff’s Deputy Garrett Abel, who accompanied DeSantis on a ride-along, pointed out drug houses in Iowa and discussed the dangers of drug abuse, including fentanyl-laced drugs that can be fatal in one use.
Strong Support, but Trump Still Leads
While Haley and DeSantis have gained support in Iowa, the latest poll shows former President Trump leading the race with 51%, while DeSantis stands at 19% and Haley at 16%. As the first-in-the-nation caucus approaches, Iowa voters have just under a month to consider their options for Republican candidates.
Building the Border Wall
When asked about a specific timeline for building a border wall, DeSantis expressed his commitment to getting it done but did not provide specifics. He stated, “My job is to get it done, and I will get it done…we’ll start on day one and we won’t stop until it’s done.”
A Call to Action
John Heckelsmiller from Ottumwa, Iowa, witnessed the consequences of the southern border firsthand. He emphasized the influx of migrants in his community and the need for individuals in office to address border security. Cox also stressed the importance of any future president addressing this pressing issue, stating, “Day one, anybody who takes this office has to attack the border.”
