Emmer: Claims of Opposition to Border Deal are False
Representative Tom Emmer has dismissed claims that Republicans have been asked not to support a bipartisan Senate-approved border deal. Emmer argues that these claims are false and merely a narrative from someone trying to protect the Biden administration.
Republicans Want to Review the Text of the Bill
Emmer emphasized that Republicans want to review the text of the bill to ensure that it provides a substantive fix for the border issue, rather than just empty promises. He believes that reinstating Trump’s Remain in Mexico policy would significantly reduce the flow of immigrants across the southern border, and that the practice of “catch and release” should also be eliminated.
Biden Administration Facing Political Pressure
Emmer pointed out that President Biden’s sudden interest in discussing the border issue is only because it has become a political liability for his administration. Republicans are skeptical of the proposed bill and are concerned about granting the president emergency authority to shut down the border, as well as giving parole authority to admit a significant number of people each year.
Undoing the Work of the Past Administration
Emmer, echoing the sentiments of many Republicans, argued that the current administration has undone the progress made by the Trump administration in securing the border. He emphasized the need for comprehensive measures such as restoring the Remain in Mexico policy to effectively address the situation.
Uncertainty Surrounds the Fate of the Border Deal
Based on these concerns, Emmer warned that getting the necessary votes for the bill may be challenging, even if it reaches the floor. The fate of the border deal remains uncertain as House Speaker Mike Johnson also expressed reservations about the bill on Friday.