Political Trade-Offs: Immigration for Ukraine Aid
President Joe Biden is tactically adjusting his stance on immigration, leaning more towards the right, in a bid to secure additional funds to assist Ukraine in its defense against Russia. However, this potential agreement is not only causing unrest among his progressive supporters but is also unlikely to materialize before the New Year, according to Senate Minority Whip John Thune.
Trump’s Influence and the Search for Middle Ground
Former President Donald Trump continues to push Republicans further right, using increasingly severe rhetoric against migrants. This could potentially complicate the quest for a balanced solution in Washington. Senators are grappling to finalize a bipartisan agreement that would see Democrats trade the foreign aid funds Biden seeks for a border policy reminiscent of Trump’s tenure.
Texas Takes Control of Immigration Matters
On Monday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a contentious law that criminalizes illegal entry into the state and empowers Texas law enforcement to arrest migrants. The law is set to take effect in March, paving the way for a legal battle next year. The US Supreme Court has previously upheld federal jurisdiction over immigration issues.
Stalled Deal in Washington
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer postponed the Senate’s holiday recess to focus on the immigration-for-Ukraine-aid deal. However, lawmakers are set to leave the capital with a substantial list of unresolved issues and no clear way forward. The House, under Speaker Mike Johnson, insists on a spending bill that significantly alters US immigration policy, reverting it to something akin to Trump’s approach.
Biden’s Willingness to Compromise on Immigration
Biden’s openness to altering border policy reflects the growing significance of this issue in US politics and his determination to secure aid for Ukraine. The US has been a primary financial supporter of Ukraine’s efforts to resist Russia’s invasion, with Biden framing the support for Ukraine as crucial to defending democracies abroad and standing up to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Left-Wing Discontent
Biden faces the challenge of persuading his left-wing supporters that any concessions on immigration are justified. Democrats have expressed frustration that they will be asked to campaign for Biden next year but will not be able to defend his shift on immigration. Democratic Rep. Delia Ramirez, a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, voiced her concerns about campaigning for someone whose immigration policies she cannot tangibly explain or defend.
Uncertainty Surrounds Potential Immigration Policy Shift
The specifics of a potential border policy deal remain unclear. House Republicans have left the details of policy adjustments to the senators, pointing to a bill they passed in May that proposed to codify some of Trump’s signature border programs.
Long List of Priorities for Early 2021
The foreign aid bill will be a top priority in early January, but it is followed by even more critical items. Short-term US government funding bills passed in November expire in mid-January and early February. A partial government shutdown is a real possibility as Republicans have indicated they will use the bills to force Democrats into spending cuts. Additionally, the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration, which should have been passed before the end of the year, has been left for the Senate to handle next year.