Biden: Ready to close U.S. border in case of crisis, law necessary
U.S. President Joe Biden (photo: Getty Images)
U.S. President Joe Biden said he was ready to close the southern border in the event of a migrant crisis. He called on lawmakers to pass a bill to that effect, according to the White House.
The American leader noted that two months ago he instructed his team to begin negotiations in the Senate to resolve the issue of border security.
"For weeks now that’s what they’ve done. Working around the clock. What’s been negotiated would – if passed into law – be the toughest and fairest set of reforms to secure the border we’ve ever had in our country," Biden said.
According to him, the new solutions would give him the authority to close the border in case of a crisis if it is overloaded.
Biden urged Congress to provide funding for border security. In particular, this includes the work of 1,300 Border Patrol agents, 375 immigration judges, 1,600 asylum officers, and more than 100 cutting-edge inspection vehicles.
"And if given that authority, I would use it the day I sign the bill into law. Securing the border through these negotiations is a win for America. For everyone who is demanding tougher border control, this is the way to do it. If you’re serious about the border crisis, pass a bipartisan bill and I will sign it," Biden emphasized.
Background
The issue of strengthening the southern border of the United States has been discussed more frequently in the U.S. Congress in recent months. In particular, Republicans have demanded that legislation be amended to include more radical proposals to secure the border with Mexico. In return, they promised to support funding aid for Ukraine and Israel.
According to The Wall Street Journal, U.S. President Joe Biden agreed to tighten immigration policy as demanded by Republicans to avoid criticism and secure aid for Ukraine. And today, CNN reported that the U.S. Senate has reached an agreement to secure the border with Mexico.
Meanwhile, Texas has begun to install a fence on the border with Mexico. Texas Governor Greg Abbott said he is ready to go against the federal government in protecting the southern border of the United States from the influx of migrants.
The White House emphasized that they consider the governor's actions "dangerous."
