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Senate Democrats Clash with Schumer on Border Negotiations, Call Approach ‘Highly Misguided’

Several progressive Democrats are expressing disagreement with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer regarding the ongoing talks aimed at incorporating stricter border policies into a national supplemental package. These negotiations, involving White House officials, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and various senators, are not well-received by some Democrats who fear excessive concessions to Republican demands.

Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey, currently facing federal bribery charges, criticized Schumer’s approach in a statement, cautioning against adopting Republican anti-immigrant policies and urging immigration advocates to oppose these measures. Senator Alex Padilla of California also voiced concerns over the direction of these talks.

Former Texas gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke warned that agreeing to Trump-era immigration policies could lead to negative consequences like increased crossing attempts, more migrant deaths, and dampened progressive voter enthusiasm.

Schumer is considering reshaping the supplemental package to include these border provisions, although specifics are still unclear. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey expressed apprehension about the uncertain future enforcement of these policies post-2024 elections.

These discussions come as Republicans condition their support for an additional $60 billion in Ukraine aid on strict border security measures. The proposed measures include immediate asylum screenings, increased detention capacity, and stronger border patrol. The Biden administration is reportedly open to expanding expedited removals nationwide and considering detention mandates for certain migrants, reminiscent of the pandemic-era Title 42 policy.

Amid these talks, the Senate postponed its recess to continue negotiations, with a vote on the supplemental package expected next week. Meanwhile, border encounters remain high, with over 10,000 encounters reported in a single day.