Trump and Harris Neck-and-Neck as Immigration and Border Security Take Center Stage
October 14, 2024An NBC News poll indicates a tight race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, with immigration and border security emerging as critical issues for voters.
Trump has made border security a central theme of his campaign, emphasizing the need to retain existing Border Patrol agents and increase their numbers.
He reiterated his commitment to completing the border wall if re-elected, despite previous claims that Mexico would fund it.
During a rally in Prescott Valley, Arizona, Trump proposed hiring an additional 10,000 Border Patrol agents and offering them a $10,000 retention and signing bonus.
His recent anti-immigration rhetoric has intensified, including calls for the death penalty for migrants who kill U.S. citizens and the launch of 'Operation Aurora' to deport gang members.
Trump frequently labels unauthorized entrants as 'invaders and criminals,' pledging to conduct the largest deportation operation in U.S. history if he returns to office.
His campaign spokesperson criticized a bipartisan immigration bill as an 'amnesty bill' that would expedite illegal immigration, reflecting Trump's opposition to it earlier this year.
Harris's campaign has countered Trump's claims by highlighting his past failures, including his role in blocking bipartisan efforts to address immigration.
Union president Paul Perez, supporting Trump, warned that a Harris victory could lead to dire consequences for American communities.
Despite Trump's focus on immigration, recent polls show that over 40% of voters prioritize the economy, with only 12% considering immigration their top concern.
Senate Republicans blocked the bipartisan immigration bill after Trump pressured them, allowing him to concentrate on border issues during his campaign.
As the election date approaches, both Trump and Harris are actively campaigning in key battleground states like Pennsylvania.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Oct 14, 2024
US election live: Trump and Harris expected in Pennsylvania with little over three weeks until vote