In a robust critique, Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his disapproval of a bipartisan border security deal being finalized by senators this week, asserting that it falls short of adequately safeguarding the southern border.
During a press conference, Johnson questioned the provision that would activate the authority to shut down the border only after approximately 5,000 illegal crossings occur in a day, emphasizing the need for a zero-tolerance approach to illegal entries.
Expressing concern over the rumored contents of the deal, Johnson stated that he hoped the speculations were untrue and reiterated his previous criticisms, suggesting that the bill, if as rumored, might face significant challenges in the House. He emphasized that the proposed measures in the bill were insufficient to secure the border against illegal activities effectively.
Speaker Johnson (Credits: San Diego Union-Tribune)
Proponents of the bill argue that the actual incidence of illegal crossings would likely be much lower. According to the bill, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would be mandated to initiate a border shutdown if the daily average encounters exceed 5,000 migrants or if a single-day total surpasses 8,500.
However, DHS would be empowered to implement a border shutdown at 4,000 encounters per day, an authority President Biden has indicated he would actively utilize.
Once the mandatory shutdown is enforced, a substantial reduction in illegal crossings (around 2,000) over two weeks would be required to reopen the border for crossings other than asylum appointments at ports of entry. The prolonged shutdown duration would be contingent on the sustained reduction in illegal crossing numbers.
In an upcoming floor speech on border security, Johnson aims to address his concerns and objections to the legislation.
He vehemently denied allegations that the House’s opposition to the bill is driven by a desire to assist former President Donald Trump in his potential return to the White House, dismissing such claims as absurd. Johnson clarified that the primary focus is on utilizing available leverage to address the border security issue effectively.
