Harris is Endorsed by Border Mayors in Swing-State Arizona as She Faces GOP Criticism on Immigration
PHOENIX (AP) — In a strategic move to counter Republican criticism regarding her immigration policies, Vice President Kamala Harris showcased endorsements from mayors of border towns in swing-state Arizona on Monday. This endorsement comes as Harris ramps up her campaign efforts, just a week after being elevated to the forefront of the Democratic presidential ticket, with less than 100 days remaining until Election Day.
Harris’ campaign announced support from the mayors of Bisbee, Nogales, Somerton, and San Luis, alongside Yuma County Supervisors Martin Porchas and Tony Reyes. While these mayors were elected without party affiliation, they represent communities that lean left, with Porchas and Reyes being Democrats. This backing is particularly significant as Republicans attempt to frame the border situation as a political liability for Harris, echoing similar criticisms aimed at President Joe Biden before he suspended his reelection campaign.
Republican leaders have accused Harris of failing to effectively manage illegal immigration, a role they have dubbed as Biden's “border czar.” Recently, House Republicans, along with a few vulnerable Democrats, voted to formally rebuke Harris over the administration’s border policies. In response, the endorsements from border mayors serve as a potential counterargument to these criticisms, especially in Arizona, the only swing state that shares a border with Mexico.
“I trust her to meet the needs of border cities and towns without taking advantage of us for her own political gain, like her opponent,” stated Somerton Mayor Gerardo Anaya, emphasizing the importance of local leadership in addressing border issues. Somerton, a city of approximately 14,000 residents, is situated in the southwestern corner of Arizona, highlighting the direct impact of federal policies on small border communities.
As vice president, Harris has been tasked with overseeing diplomatic initiatives aimed at addressing the root causes of migration from the Northern Triangle countries—El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. The Biden administration's strategy focuses on long-term solutions that address the underlying issues driving migration, while also pressing these countries to enhance their border enforcement.
Immigration has been a cornerstone of former President Donald Trump's political narrative since he launched his first campaign in 2015. He has consistently portrayed the border situation as chaotic, posing threats to national security and the economy. Should he secure a second term, Trump has vowed to deport millions of undocumented individuals residing in the U.S.
In contrast, President Biden has sought a dual approach: tightening restrictions on new arrivals while simultaneously creating new pathways for immigration. Recent policy changes announced in June aimed to limit asylum access when border arrivals exceeded a certain threshold, a move that has drawn ire from immigration advocates who argue it mirrors Trump-era policies. Shortly thereafter, Biden introduced a program designed to assist undocumented spouses of American citizens who have lived in the U.S. for over a decade, potentially paving the way for citizenship.
Despite the ongoing challenges, border arrests have seen a decline from record highs recorded last December, indicating a shift in the immigration landscape. As the political climate intensifies, Harris’ endorsements from border mayors may play a crucial role in shaping her narrative and addressing the GOP's criticisms as the election approaches.