Manchin: Biden’s bill neglects border security, causing Democratic discord
Sen. Joe Manchin Slams Senate for Excluding Border Security Provisions in Foreign Aid Bill
Senator Joe Manchin, a Democrat from West Virginia, strongly criticized the Senate for leaving out crucial border security provisions in the recently passed $95 million foreign aid bill. The bill was approved after an intense all-night session, with a vote of 70-29, as 22 Republicans joined forces with almost all Democratic members.
Manchin, known for his centrist views, had been advocating for action on border security following the collapse of a previous foreign aid bill that included such provisions. The previous bill faced opposition from most Republicans and some Democrats.
“While I’m pleased the Senate came together to pass bipartisan aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, I’m extremely disappointed that the legislation excludes essential provisions to shut down the southern border and send a clear message to the world that if you come here illegally, you will be sent home,”
Manchin expressed in a statement on Tuesday. He further added, “We owe it to the 18,000 men and women of the Border Patrol Union to keep working to pass this bill, and I intend to do just that.”
Despite his criticism, Manchin also commended the bill for fulfilling its commitments to Ukraine and Israel, especially during times of conflict in both countries.
“As the superpower of the world, we cannot abandon our allies. The United States Senate’s bipartisan national security package advances America’s interests both on the world stage and right here at home. It’s a commitment to help Ukraine fight against Putin’s unprovoked invasion and send a powerful signal to all our NATO allies, especially those along the Russian border, that we will stand strong to defend democracy,”
Manchin emphasized. He continued, “We are also making a commitment to support Israel following Hamas’ unprecedented terrorist attack.”
Manchin concluded by stating that the bill also demonstrates a commitment to rebuilding the country’s defense industrial base and urged his colleagues in the House to swiftly pass this bipartisan package.
The bill now faces challenges in the House of Representatives, where Republican leadership has been pushing for action on border security while expressing skepticism about additional funding for Ukraine.
The Senate bill, which initially included border provisions, was the result of four months of bipartisan negotiations. However, it fell apart when a majority of Senate Republicans voiced their opposition, and House GOP leadership declared it would be “dead on arrival.”
How do supporters of including border security provisions argue that it would address the ongoing crisis at the southern border and prioritize national security?
Tisan legislation to provide much-needed aid to foreign countries, I am deeply disheartened that crucial border security provisions were once again excluded,” Manchin said in a press release. “It is our duty to ensure the safety and security of our own borders, and by neglecting border security in this bill, we are putting our nation at risk.”
Manchin argued that including border security provisions in the foreign aid bill would serve two important purposes. Firstly, it would address the ongoing crisis at the southern border of the United States, where there has been a significant increase in illegal border crossings and drug trafficking. Secondly, it would demonstrate the Senate’s commitment to prioritize national security and protect American citizens.
The exclusion of border security provisions from the bill has drawn criticism from various lawmakers and citizens alike. They argue that while providing aid to foreign countries is commendable, it should not come at the expense of neglecting the security of the nation’s borders. They believe that border security is not only essential for maintaining law and order, but it also plays a crucial role in preventing the entry of illegal drugs and protecting the well-being of American citizens.
In response to the criticism, some Senate Democrats have defended the exclusion of border security provisions, arguing that they should be tackled separately in a comprehensive immigration reform bill. They assert that combining foreign aid and border security would unnecessarily complicate negotiations and hinder the passage of vital aid to countries in need.
However, critics argue that separating border security from the foreign aid bill would further delay action on resolving the border crisis. They emphasize that border security is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention and should not be postponed while waiting for comprehensive immigration reform to materialize.
Manchin urged his fellow lawmakers to prioritize border security and find ways to include these provisions in future legislation. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that addresses the needs of both foreign aid and border security.
As the bill moves to the House of Representatives, it remains to be seen whether border security provisions will be added or if the current version will be passed as is. The inclusion or exclusion of border security provisions will likely be a topic of intense debate and negotiation in the coming weeks.
In conclusion, Senator Joe Manchin’s criticism of the Senate for excluding crucial border security provisions in the foreign aid bill highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the prioritization of national security and the provision of aid to foreign countries. As the nation grapples with an increase in illegal border crossings and drug trafficking, finding a balance between these two priorities becomes increasingly important. The ultimate outcome of this debate will have far-reaching implications for the nation’s security and its relationships with foreign countries.
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