Lead negotiators continue talks
As negotiations on border security continue, lead negotiators Sen. James Lankford, Sen. Chris Murphy, and Sen. Krysten Sinema conducted discussions over the weekend with Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The negotiations took place in Democrat Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s office. Despite no written proposal being reached, Sinema expressed optimism, stating “we’re making progress.”
Complexity of the issue
Sinema acknowledged the complexity of the issue, referring to it as “the most complicated area of law in the United States.” Recognizing the importance of getting it right, she emphasized the need to avoid unintended consequences and years of litigation. Murphy echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that “nobody’s voting on this until they have time to review the text.”
Republican concerns
Republican lawmakers have raised concerns about rushed negotiations and secret discussions with Democrats. 15 Republican senators have called for a conference meeting to discuss these issues, requesting that the meeting be scheduled no earlier than the week of Jan. 8. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also expressed doubts about voting on the legislation without sufficient time to review it, stating that it would not succeed.
Potential obstacles ahead
Despite ongoing negotiations, both parties have expressed their unwillingness to rush a vote on the package. If a deal is not reached soon, talks will continue into the new year. GOP senators have indicated their intention to block any procedural vote brought to the floor by Schumer. Additionally, the legislation will have to clear multiple stages before becoming law, including the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Border security measures
The negotiations have revolved around border security measures, including additional aid to Ukraine tied to stricter border security measures. The White House has requested approximately $106 billion in supplemental aid, which includes support for Israel. CBS reported that the White House is willing to mandate the detention of certain migrants and implement a new authority similar to Title 42, which allowed for rapid expulsions of migrants during the COVID-19 era.
Despite the challenges ahead, the negotiations represent a significant step toward finding a resolution to the complex issue of border security.