According to Fox News, Vice President Kamala Harris has come under fire for her support of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and its resultant allocation of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grants to several organizations.
The controversy arose from allegations that some of these organizations engage in activities perceived to be anti-American and anti-Israel.
Harris championed the IRA's goal of enhancing equity through EPA grants to various left-leaning groups. However, a Senate investigation led by Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, revealed concerns about the nature of these organizations.
Sen. Capito highlighted groups such as the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, the Climate Justice Alliance (CJA), the NDN Collective, the New York Immigration Coalition, and the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice as recipients of these grants. Capito says these groups have taken stands that are arguably against American principles.
The CJA is set to receive a $50 million grant amidst allegations that it supports Hamas and holds anti-Israel views. Similarly, the Ella Baker Center advocates for defunding the police, while the NDN Collective calls for defunding both the police and the U.S. military, controversially labeling the United States as "so-called."
Sen. Capito claimed that these funds are supporting groups described as anti-American, antisemitic, anti-Israel, and critical of police and border security. She emphasized that a significant portion of this money funds activities unrelated to environmental goals.
In December 2023, Harris stressed that the grants aim to promote environmental justice and ensure that resources reach community organizations familiar with local needs. Nonetheless, skepticism persists over the affiliations and actions of grant recipients.
Adding to the controversy, Sen. Capito suggested that the EPA is accelerating its grant distributions in anticipation of potential political changes. "There's been a recent rush to get this money out. And that's because they know that there's a likelihood, we like to think a high likelihood, that the administration will change come November," she remarked.
The EPA responded to the scrutiny by asserting that it independently administers funding programs following rigorous grant competition policies. An EPA spokesperson confirmed: "EPA strongly condemns violence, hate, or discrimination in any form, and any such comments are abhorrent and unacceptable."
Furthermore, the EPA maintains confidence in its oversight measures, ensuring that grant management complies with legal and federal requirements. These assurances, however, have not entirely quelled the growing concerns about grant allocation under the IRA.
Vice President Harris has made clear her condemnation of any association with Hamas, a terrorist organization committed to harming Israel. "I condemn any individuals associating with the brutal terrorist organization Hamas, which has vowed to annihilate the State of Israel and kill Jews," she stated.
Moreover, the Vice President continues to defend the goal of these funds in fostering environmental justice. Despite this, Capito's findings and the organizations involved pose a significant challenge to Harris' initiative's perception.
Vice President Kamala Harris faces significant backlash due to her support of the IRA amid allegations concerning the nature of grant recipients. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito's investigation highlights the contentious involvement of left-leaning groups accused of anti-American activities. Amidst these allegations, both Harris and the EPA defend the goal of promoting environmental justice, although the controversy remains unresolved.
According to the Associated Press, former President Donald Trump made accusations against Vice President Kamala Harris during a recent radio interview, alleging she harbors animosity toward Jewish people and Israel.
In an interview with WABC radio on Tuesday, Trump accused Harris, whose husband Doug Emhoff is Jewish, of disliking Jewish individuals and Israel.
During the interview with radio host Sid Rosenberg, Trump concurred with Rosenberg's derogatory assertions about Emhoff, labeling him a "crappy Jew."
This exchange aired in the wake of Harris's meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which Trump described as uncomfortable and pointed to as evidence of her alleged disdain.
Trump criticized Harris heavily, claiming, "You can see the disdain. No. 1, she doesn’t like Israel. No. 2, she doesn’t like Jewish people." This remark is part of Trump's broader strategy to exploit perceived fractures within the Democratic Party concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The former president also has a history of making provocative remarks himself, including previously dining with a Holocaust-denying white nationalist. His rhetoric around Jewish constituents has been controversial, continuing with his assertion that Jewish people who support Democrats are "fools."
The radio discussion also included criticisms aimed at Emhoff's Jewish identity. Rosenberg sarcastically questioned Emhoff's Jewish authenticity, with Trump voicing agreement.
Emhoff, notable for his actions against antisemitism such as displaying mezuzahs at the vice president's residence and leading White House Passover celebrations, saw his daughter, Ella Emhoff, criticized by Trump's campaign for fundraising for Palestinian refugees.
The Harris campaign, represented by spokesperson James Singer, condemned Trump's remarks, stating, "America is better than the fear, hate, and despicable insults of Donald Trump." Singer emphasized Harris's belief in a presidency that unites rather than divides the nation.
This isn’t the first instance of Trump making these claims about Harris. He echoed similar sentiments at a Turning Point USA gathering in Florida, aiming to underscore perceived hypocrisy and target Jewish Democratic voters.
Emhoff’s office has chosen not to comment on the recent allegations made during the WABC interview. His role as the second gentleman includes active efforts to combat antisemitism and support for Jewish traditions within the residence he shares with Vice President Harris.
Rosenberg, known for controversial and often racially insensitive comments, including past derogatory statements about Venus and Serena Williams, engaged in a similar pattern of behavior during the interview with Trump. The former president’s alignment with Rosenberg’s comments furthers the inflammatory discourse surrounding his critique of Harris and Emhoff.
Trump's interview on WABC has highlighted his escalating attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris, particularly focusing on her relationships with Jewish individuals and Israel. Rosenberg's disparaging comments about Doug Emhoff’s Jewish identity and Trump’s agreement underscore the charged rhetoric used against Harris’s stance on Jewish issues. Critics, including Harris’s campaign, have condemned these remarks as divisive at a time when unity is sought in American politics.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has once again denied speculation of being considered for Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate.
According to the New York Post, Whitmer confirmed she is not part of the vetting process and is dedicated to fulfilling her role as governor.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer addressed the rumors during an appearance on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” on Monday, where she emphatically stated her commitment to her governorship. She mentioned that she has communicated her intentions clearly to Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign.
Whitmer underscored her dedication to Michigan, stating she plans to serve out her term. "I have communicated with everyone, including the campaign, that I’ve made a commitment to serve out my term as governor in Michigan," Whitmer said.
Whitmer, who is 52 and currently a co-chair of Harris' presidential campaign, remains focused on supporting Harris from her current position rather than vying for the vice-presidential slot. She reiterated this stance in a separate interview, emphasizing, "No, I’m not planning to go anywhere."
Whitmer also plans to campaign for Harris in Pennsylvania alongside Governor Josh Shapiro, 51, further demonstrating her proactive support for the Harris campaign without changing her role.
The Harris campaign has been undergoing an expedited vetting process to select a vice-presidential candidate, with an announcement expected within two weeks. The decision is anticipated before the Democratic National Committee's virtual roll call vote by August 7.
Among those being considered for the vice-presidential role are several prominent figures, including Senator Mark Kelly, Governor Josh Shapiro, Governor Andy Beshear, Governor Tim Walz, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. During an interview with CBS Mornings, Whitmer hinted at the swift nature of the vetting process, stating, "Everything is truncated, and she’s going to make that decision probably in the next six, seven days."
Whitmer formally endorsed Vice President Harris shortly after President Biden announced his withdrawal from the race. This sealed Harris as the presumptive Democratic nominee given her delegate support.
The Harris campaign has gained significant momentum, raising approximately $200 million within a week following Biden’s exit. The financial surge signifies strong backing from the Democratic base and underscores the urgency in selecting a vice-presidential candidate.
Whitmer has consistently communicated her resolve to remain in Michigan and not pursue a vice-presidential campaign. She stressed her pride in her governorship and her consistency, "I am proud to be the governor of Michigan. I have been consistent." She continued, "I know everyone is always suspicious and asking this question over and over again. I am not going anywhere."
The Democratic National Convention is slated to occur from August 19 to 22 in Chicago, where the official roll call will solidify the party's nominees and strategies for the upcoming election cycle. As co-chair of the Harris campaign, Whitmer will play a crucial role in mobilizing support while retaining her duties in Michigan. She emphasized her strategic value in her current role, stating, "I can be an excellent ally to President Harris, and I can be a great co-chair of the Harris campaign from my place as governor."
In conclusion, Gretchen Whitmer has officially ruled out any vice-presidential aspirations, firmly committing to her role as Michigan’s governor. Her dedication extends to actively supporting Kamala Harris' presidential bid from her existing position. As Harris continues her vetting process with the decision expected soon, potential candidates include notable figures like Senator Mark Kelly and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
According to Fox News, law enforcement officials had identified Thomas Matthew Crooks as a potential threat 90 minutes before he fired upon attendees at former President Donald Trump’s rally in Pennsylvania.
Despite multiple warnings, Crooks managed to position himself on a building and open fire, causing one death and several injuries.
Text messages from law enforcement reveal that Thomas Matthew Crooks was marked as suspicious well ahead of the shooting incident. Officers from the Beaver County Emergency Services Unit (ESU) identified Crooks using a range finder but did not confront him directly.
In a group chat of Beaver ESU officers, the first warning came at 4:36 p.m., when an officer noted that someone had parked near their vehicle. "Someone followed our lead and snuck in," an officer warned.
Officers did not approach Crooks but continued to observe his movements. At 5:10 p.m., they noted he had moved to another location near the American Glass International (AGR) building. An officer documented this by taking a picture of Crooks leaning against the building.
Crooks was described as having greasy shoulder-length hair and wearing a gray t-shirt. He was seen holding a range finder and looking towards the stage where Trump was scheduled to speak.
Despite repeated observations, officers eventually lost sight of Crooks. A chain of text messages shows increasing concern among the officers about Crooks’ suspicious activity. They suggested alerting the command and requested a uniformed officer to check it out.
At 6:11 p.m., Crooks began his assault from atop the AGR building. He opened fire on the crowd, resulting in the death of 50-year-old Corey Comperatore, who was protecting his family from the gunshots.
Former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet on his ear. Three rally-goers were injured: David Dutch and James Copenhaver sustained wounds but survived.
During the attack, it was a counter-sniper who finally neutralized Crooks, preventing further bloodshed. The sniper managed to take Crooks down shortly after he initiated gunfire.
Victims of the shooting received prompt medical attention. James Copenhaver was discharged from the hospital on Friday, while David Dutch was released on Wednesday, July 24.
The tragic death of Corey Comperatore and the injuries sustained by others highlight the urgent need for reevaluations in security protocols. Authorities are urged to learn and adapt to prevent future incidents of this nature.
Text message records indicate that alerts about Crooks were issued at several points leading up to the shooting. Officers were aware of the potential threat Crooks posed but did not intervene directly prior to the attack. Questions are mounting regarding the protocols and responses of the law enforcement officers present. Concerns surround why Crooks was not intercepted before he could position himself on the building and fire into the crowd.
According to Fox News, former President Donald Trump has publicly defended a female Secret Service agent who shielded him during a recent assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The agent has faced significant online criticism for not being tall enough, which spurred Trump to offer his support amidst a flurry of controversial commentary.
The incident occurred on July 13 during a public appearance by Trump. The female Secret Service agent, whose name has not been disclosed, placed herself between the former president and the assailant, drawing praise and criticism.
Trump spoke about the incident at a rally in St. Cloud. “I don’t know how they didn’t get hit. Bullets were flying,” he said, praising the bravery of the agent. “She was shielding me with everything she could. And she got crushed. And she got criticized by the fake news because she wasn’t tall enough.”
Despite her heroism, the female agent drew criticism on social media. Dinesh D'Souza, a conservative commentator, took to X to express his disapproval of female agents, stating that they have “no clue what to do.” He went on to criticize the Secret Service’s attempts to increase female recruitment as an example of diversity initiatives gone wrong.
Matt Walsh, a podcaster, joined the criticism, asserting that “none of the very best at this job are women.” He argued that having women in the Secret Service implies that more qualified men are being overlooked for these vital roles.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk also commented on X, indirectly referencing the incident by questioning the size requirements for bodyguards.
“Having a small person as body cover for a large man is like an undersized Speedo at the beach—doesn’t cover the subject,” Musk said, emphasizing the need for adequate physical attributes, regardless of gender.
In the wake of the incident, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle stepped down, taking full responsibility for what she described as a "security lapse."
In her resignation letter, she stated, “I take full responsibility for the security lapse. In light of recent events, it is with a heavy heart that I have made the difficult decision to step down as your director.”
The House Homeland Security Committee has launched a full investigation into the incident in Butler, Pennsylvania. They have issued subpoenas as part of their inquiry into the security breakdown that allowed for the assassination attempt to occur.
Trump continued to support his agent, reiterating her actions and bravery during a rally. “She was so brave, she wanted to take a bullet,” he said, lambasting the "fake news" for their criticism based on her height. He emphasized her dedication and willingness to protect him despite the fierce criticism she faced.
The assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, spurred a national conversation on the role and capabilities of female Secret Service agents. Trump's support for his agent brought attention to the criticisms she faced, including those from prominent conservatives Dinesh D'Souza and Matt Walsh. Elon Musk’s comments on bodyguard size requirements added another layer to the debate, which culminated in the resignation of Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle.
An analysis conducted by the New York Times has cast doubt on FBI Director Christopher Wray's assertion regarding former President Donald Trump's injury at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
The NYT analysis suggests that Trump was indeed struck by a bullet rather than shrapnel during the attack, despite the FBI chief's attempt to raise questions about that fact, as Just the News reports.
Earlier this month, an attack occurred at a rally held by former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania. A gunman opened fire during the event, resulting in the death of one attendee and injuries to three others, including Trump.
The Times conducted an analysis that brings new light to the incident. According to the outlet's report, at least three bullets nearly struck the former President, with one making contact with his ear.
Wray addressed the incident during a House hearing on Tuesday, stating that there remains "some question" whether Trump's ear injury was caused by a bullet or by shrapnel. This claim from Wray appears to be in contrast with the findings of the Times' analysis. The paper's conclusions suggest that a bullet, not shrapnel, was responsible for Trump's injury.
Former President Trump himself has taken to social media to assert the nature of his injury. He claimed that the hospital confirmed that a bullet struck his ear during the rally.
The FBI has yet to determine the motive behind the violent attack at the Butler rally. As investigations continue, officials are working to piece together the reasons that led to the deadly incident. Authorities are under significant pressure to uncover not only the motive but also the exact details surrounding the attack. This includes confirming the type of projectile that injured Trump.
The contrast between the Times' analysis and the statements made by Wray adds complexity to an already convoluted situation. Both publications and officials seek certainty in their conclusions.
The public reaction to the differing reports has been notable. Supporters of the former president, wary of media bias, have closely followed the unfolding narrative. The political implications of the incident and the investigation have also been significant. Questions about security at political rallies and the efficiency of investigations have been raised.
As investigations proceed, the focus on accurate reporting remains critical. Media outlets and official statements play a crucial role in shaping public perception and understanding of the incident.
As the investigation by the FBI continues, the public and political stakeholders await more definitive answers regarding the incident. The hope is for a thorough examination that will provide clarity and closure.
The loss of life and the injuries sustained have cast a shadow over the Butler rally. The need for foolproof security measures at future events has been underscored by this violent episode.
In conclusion, the clash between the Times' analysis and Director Wray's statements highlights the ongoing quest for truth in the wake of the Butler rally attack. Former President Trump's assertion on social media adds yet another layer to the unfolding story, as the nation waits for a clear resolution.
A rally in Butler, Pennsylvania turned dangerous when former President Donald Trump was struck in the ear by a bullet on July 13.
The FBI has confirmed the nature of the injury, detailed as a bullet wound, and continues to investigate the incident, despite charged comments from agency Director Christopher Wray that seemed to cast doubt on the nature of the harm sustained, as the Gateway Pundit reports.
During the rally, a gunman opened fire, leaving the former president injured. The FBI has since verified that the injury was from a bullet and not other debris.
The FBI’s Shooting Reconstruction Team is actively examining evidence collected from the chaotic scene, including bullet fragments. Despite the ongoing investigation, some initial speculations were deemed incorrect.
Wray initially suggested the injury might have been caused by shrapnel. Speaking to Rep. Jim Jordan in a hearing this past week, Wray stated there was uncertainty about whether it was a bullet or shrapnel. This theory was put to rest after further examination and medical confirmation. The medical report from Butler Memorial Hospital confirmed Trump's injury was a bullet wound.
Rep. Ronny Jackson, himself a former White House physician, tended to Trump after the incident. After examining the injury, Dr. Jackson confirmed it was indeed from a bullet.
In response to Wray's earlier speculation about shrapnel, Trump criticized the FBI director, alleging the theory was false. Trump expressed his disapproval on Truth Social, calling out the "shrapnel theory" as fake news. Reacting to the FBI's finalized report, Trump stated, "I assume that’s the best apology that we’ll get from Director Wray, but it is fully accepted!" This was a clear indication of Trump's desire for accurate information dissemination.
The FBI's report clarified that the injury was unequivocally caused by a bullet from the gunman’s rifle. The official statement noted, "What struck former President Trump in the ear was a bullet, whether whole or fragmented into smaller pieces, fired from the deceased subject’s rifle."
The investigation remains extensive as the FBI’s Shooting Reconstruction Team continues its meticulous examination of the evidence, including any bullet fragments recovered from the scene. This ongoing effort underscores the seriousness of the incident and the comprehensive approach taken by law enforcement.
Dr. Jackson was clear in distinguishing the nature of the injury, emphasizing it was not caused by glass or shrapnel but by a bullet. His medical expertise provided certainty amid contradictory initial reports.
This incident, occurring during what was supposed to be a routine political rally, has prompted concern and scrutiny. The thorough investigation serves to uncover the facts surrounding this alarming event.
To summarize, on July 13, during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a gunman shot former President Trump in the ear. The FBI initially theorized shrapnel might have caused the injury, but further investigation confirmed it was a bullet. Medical reports and examinations supported this. The FBI continues to analyze evidence at the site.
FBI Director Wray's initial comments created a stir, leading to criticism from Trump. However, the recent statements provided clarity on the nature of the injury.
The House passed a resolution condemning Vice President Kamala Harris's handling of the border just days after she became the Democratic presidential nominee.
According to Business Insider, six House Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the resolution, highlighting internal party divisions.
The resolution was rushed to a vote this week, sponsored by Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York. The House passed the resolution on Thursday condemning Kamala Harris's handling of the border. This action follows Harris's recent nomination as the Democratic presidential candidate, raising concerns about her performance and strategy on immigration.
Six House Democrats broke ranks to support the GOP-backed resolution. Among them were Yadira Caraveo of Colorado, Henry Cuellar of Texas, Don Davis of North Carolina, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, Jared Golden of Maine, and Mary Peltola of Alaska. These members represent conservative-leaning districts or face challenging reelection campaigns.
The resolution's text accuses the Biden administration and Vice President Harris, who was tasked early on with addressing the root causes of migration, of failing to secure the U.S. border. Despite not holding the formal title of "border czar," Harris has been a focal point of criticism regarding border policies.
Stefanik emphasized the political undertones of the resolution, stating, "Harris and every elected Democrat owns this historic border crisis that has turned every community into a border community." She advocated for a return to former President Donald Trump's border security policies.
The resolution was expedited following President Joe Biden's decision to step aside, which added urgency to the vote. The Republicans have seized this moment to underscore what they perceive as weaknesses in Harris's immigration approach. The language in the resolution was overtly political, designed to spotlight these perceived vulnerabilities.
The border issue remains a significant point of contention, with Republicans using it as a strategic tool against Harris and the Democratic Party. The passage of this resolution has further exposed divisions within the Democratic ranks, particularly among those who are in politically precarious positions.
Harris has faced ongoing scrutiny since being assigned to address migration issues. Critics argue that her efforts have fallen short, while supporters claim that the complexity of the situation requires a multifaceted approach that cannot yield immediate results.
The vote has significant implications for the upcoming elections. The Democrats who supported the resolution may face backlash from their party but hope to gain favor with constituents in their conservative-leaning districts. This balancing act underscores the broader challenges the Democratic Party faces in maintaining unity while addressing contentious issues.
Republicans are expected to continue using the border as a critical issue in their campaign strategies. By keeping the focus on Harris and the Biden administration's policies, they aim to rally their base and attract undecided voters concerned about immigration and border security.
The resolution's passage is a strategic move by Republicans to weaken Harris's position as the Democratic nominee. It serves as a reminder of the political landscape's volatility and the importance of addressing key issues effectively.
In conclusion, the House resolution condemning Vice President Kamala Harris's handling of the border highlights the deep divisions within the Democratic Party. The involvement of six House Democrats underscores the political pressures and challenges facing the party.
An attempted assassination on former President Donald Trump occurred at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13.
The gunman, Thomas Crooks, was heavily prepared, evading law enforcement and opening fire, resulting in Trump being shot in the ear and three other casualties.
NBC News reported that according to the FBI, Crooks arrived in Butler for the first time on July 5, a full eight days before Trump's campaign rally. His search history shows that on July 6, he looked up the distance from which Lee Harvey Oswald shot President Kennedy. This same day, Crooks registered to attend Trump's rally.
On the day of the rally, Crooks purchased 50 rounds of ammunition. At around 4 p.m., he flew a drone roughly 200 yards away from the main stage. Two hours later, witnesses reported seeing a suspicious individual on the roof of a nearby building.
Later, Crooks opened fire, aiming at Trump and resulting in the former president being shot in the ear. Three other people were injured in the incident. The gunman had a weapon with a collapsible stock, which made it easier to hide and transport.
The FBI is still piecing together Crooks' motive. FBI Director Christopher Wray highlighted Crooks' fascination with prominent individuals and his focus on Trump in the week leading up to the rally.
"We still have not determined his motive, and it has been frustrating that the investigation has not yielded significant clues," Wray mentioned.
Details about Crooks' preparation include his visit to a shooting range on July 12, where he likely practiced with the same AR-style rifle used in the rally attack.
Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris stated that law enforcement identified Crooks as suspicious earlier because he was loitering near the rally site without trying to enter and was observed carrying a rangefinder.
"The officer saw Crooks from a second-story window and went to investigate," Paris explained.
Seconds before the shooting began, Crooks was not considered an actual threat. Once the officer spotted him, Crooks pointed his weapon, causing the officer to fall, and immediately began shooting at Trump.
FBI Director Wray also mentioned that Crooks had a drone controller and two explosive devices in his vehicle, though it appears the remote detonation option would not have worked. Additionally, eight bullet cartridges were retrieved from the rooftop where Crooks was found.
A bloodied receipt for a 5-foot ladder was discovered on Crooks, but the ladder itself was not at the scene.
This suggests meticulous planning on Crooks' part, even purchasing specific items for his attack.
Crooks' extensive planning and execution raise concerns about the security measures in place for such events.
The incident also underscores the importance of thorough preparation and vigilance by law enforcement agencies.
Rep. Jim Jordan emphasized the need for a detailed play-by-play of the incident. "We need to know play-by-play, moment-by-moment, second-by-second," Jordan stressed during a recent hearing.
The FBI's ongoing investigation into Crooks' motive will be crucial to understanding his actions and preventing similar incidents in the future.
Thomas Crooks, who had no criminal record, was noted to be an avid shooting hobbyist. Wray confirmed this, noting that Crooks frequented shooting ranges, likely with the same firearm used in the attack.
The attack on former President Donald Trump, while alarming, highlights the need for stringent security measures for public figures. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies continue to gather clues to unravel Crooks' motives and prevent such threats in the future.
A House panel has approved a resolution condemning Vice President Kamala Harris' handling of the border after a special session according to Fox News.
This development follows President Biden's announcement that he will not seek re-election, leading Harris to announce her candidacy for the White House.
The House Rules Committee convened on Tuesday to vote on the resolution, initiated in response to growing concerns about Harris' approach to border security. The meeting was slated on Monday night, catching many by surprise due to its sudden scheduling.
President Biden, at 81 years old, revealed on Sunday that he would not pursue a second term, bowing to pressure from within his party. His decision set the stage for Vice President Harris to declare her intention to run for president.
The resolution passed along party lines, with House Rules Committee Chairman Michael Burgess, R-Texas, acknowledging the political nature of the timing. "Everything's gonna be political this year," he remarked, asserting that the significance of border security transcends political timetables.
Republicans have long criticized Harris for her handling of border issues, particularly in her role as the designated "border czar" since 2021. Despite multiple visits to Latin America, including a trip to Honduras in 2022, her efforts have been deemed insufficient by her critics.
Adding to the scrutiny, it was revealed that Harris has not communicated with Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens since he assumed his role last year. This lack of direct engagement has raised eyebrows and further fueled Republican allegations of mismanagement.
White House spokesman Andrew Bates countered these criticisms, accusing Republicans of deliberately obstructing vital resources for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol. He emphasized that the Biden-Harris Administration's executive actions have successfully reduced unauthorized crossings compared to the previous administration.
"As we speak, congressional Republicans continue their months-long blockade of critical resources for ICE and the Border Patrol in the tough bipartisan border security agreement supported by the Biden-Harris Administration," Bates stated. He accused Republicans of prioritizing their allegiance to former President Donald Trump over national security.
Burgess, however, pointed to recent tragedies involving American citizens and individuals who had entered the country unlawfully. In June, six Americans were reportedly killed by people who "had no business being here," according to Burgess, underscoring what he views as a failure of the current administration to protect the borders.
The passage of the resolution condemning Harris marks a significant political maneuver as she prepares for her presidential bid. The Republicans' action is likely to be a contentious issue in the upcoming election cycle.
The Biden-Harris Administration remains steadfast in their belief that their approach to border security has been effective. They assert that their policies have resulted in a notable decrease in unauthorized border crossings compared to when Trump left office.
The emergency session on Tuesday highlights the ongoing, deeply polarized debate over border management. It also illuminates the broader political landscape, where every action is scrutinized and often politicized, especially in an election year.
To conclude, a key House panel passed a resolution criticizing Vice President Kamala Harris' handling of the border.
This occurred during an emergency session convened on Tuesday, following President Biden's announcement of not seeking re-election and Harris' subsequent announcement of her candidacy.
The House Rules Committee's decision came along party lines, with Republicans accusing Harris of failing in her "border czar" responsibilities. Harris' lack of direct communication with Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens and her criticized trips to Latin America further complicated her position.
The White House defended its actions, blaming Republicans for blocking essential resources. Burgess highlighted the urgency with recent tragic incidents involving unauthorized individuals. The resolution's passage is a pivotal moment as Harris embarks on her presidential campaign.