During an appearance on "The Tim Dillon Show," Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders offered a candid perspective on border security, diverging from his previous stance and praising President Donald Trump's approach. Sanders, while discussing his new book "Fight Oligarchy," conceded that President Trump's immigration enforcement policies were more robust than those under the previous administration.
Sanders emphasized that a nation's identity is tied to its ability to maintain secure borders. "So long as we have nation-states, you've got to have borders," he remarked, underlining the importance of a country's sovereignty. The senator's comments reflect a notable shift from his past rhetoric, particularly during his 2020 presidential campaign when he frequently criticized discussions of border crises as fear-mongering tactics aimed at immigrants.
The interview unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing debates over immigration policy in the United States. Recent data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection indicates a significant uptick in migrant encounters, with nearly 2.47 million instances in fiscal year 2023, in stark contrast to the approximate 458,000 recorded during President Trump's last complete year in office. The surge in illegal crossings has resulted in widespread frustration, prompting calls from local officials in border states for more decisive federal intervention.
In a departure from his earlier views, Sanders acknowledged the capability of the U.S. to secure its borders effectively, citing available "technology and manpower." He expressed disappointment with both political parties for their failure to enforce existing immigration laws. Under the current administration, there has been a cessation of the release of illegal aliens into the interior of the country, reflecting a zero-tolerance policy on unauthorized entry.
Sanders' statements signify a deepening rift within the Democratic Party on the issue of immigration. His admission that President Trump handled the matter with greater competence has highlighted a growing discontent among voters who prioritize national security over political considerations.
