Bipartisan Critique of Immigration Policies

Both Democratic and Republican candidates in Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District race have expressed dissatisfaction with current immigration policies, particularly those that have led to a significant increase in migrant encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border. Incumbent Democrat Susan Wild and her Republican challenger Ryan Mackenzie share a common view that the immigration situation requires urgent attention, yet they attribute blame to each other’s parties for the lack of effective solutions.

Throughout the campaign, both candidates have highlighted the need for reform to address the immigration crisis. Wild has criticized Republican leadership for obstructing bipartisan efforts to improve border security, while Mackenzie has pointed to what he perceives as failures in Democratic policies leading to increased illegal immigration. Wild advocates for comprehensive immigration reform that includes better treatment for asylum seekers and a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, while Mackenzie emphasizes stricter border security measures, including the construction of a border wall and the reinstatement of previous policies like the “Remain in Mexico” program. This divergence in approach illustrates the broader national debate on immigration reform, where both parties seek to address a complex issue that resonates deeply with voters.

Key Issues Raised by Candidates

• Border Security: Both candidates agree that the situation at the southern border is critical, but they propose different solutions. Wild supports increasing personnel and technology at the border, while Mackenzie prioritizes building a wall and enforcing stricter immigration laws.

• Political Accountability: Wild has accused Republicans of using the immigration crisis as a political tool, suggesting that their inaction has exacerbated the issue. Conversely, Mackenzie blames the Biden administration and Wild for what he describes as “open borders” policies that have led to a surge in illegal immigration.

• Bipartisan Solutions: Despite their differences, both candidates acknowledge the need for bipartisan cooperation to effectively tackle immigration reform. Wild has worked with both parties to propose legislation aimed at enhancing border security and addressing the flow of illegal immigration and fentanyl into communities.

This bipartisan critique highlights the complexities surrounding immigration policy and reflects the ongoing struggle to find common ground in a highly polarized political environment.