Fetterman Claims Democrats Are "Living in the Backlash" Over Border Security
Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, has issued a stark warning to his party, asserting that Democrats are now "living in the backlash" after disregarding his earlier cautions about securing the southern border. This criticism comes amid escalating concerns over immigration policies and federal funding disputes.
Warnings Ignored, Consequences Felt
In a recent interview with Dasha Burns on Politico's "The Conversation," Fetterman recalled that more than two years ago, he alerted Democrats that "the border is a disaster." He expressed frustration that his party initially dismissed these concerns, with some now, including mayors like Eric Adams, urgently calling for assistance as situations appear "out of control." Fetterman emphasized, "We're going to burn for that, because that's not sustainable."
Unsustainable Numbers and Humanitarian Concerns
Highlighting government data from December 2023, which showed a record high of nearly 300,000 monthly encounters at the border, Fetterman questioned the feasibility of supporting such influx. "And even if you are just only [concerned] about the welfare of the migrants, as I am, how can you possibly give them the American dream when it's 300,000 a month?" he argued. This, he stated, is a core part of the political backlash facing Democrats.
Breaking Ranks on DHS Funding
Fetterman made headlines this week as the only Senate Democrat to vote in favor of advancing a full-year funding package for the Department of Homeland Security. This decision broke from party lines, particularly following federal operations that resulted in U.S. citizen fatalities and serious injuries. In a post on X, he defended his stance, writing, "shutting DHS down has zero impact and zero changes for ICE," and noting that ICE already has substantial funding from previous bills.
He further explained that a shutdown would adversely affect agencies like FEMA, the Coast Guard, TSA, and the Cybersecurity Agency, stating, "As a Democrat, I can't vote to shut down critical parts of our government." This move contrasts with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's recent acknowledgment that "the status quo cannot continue," yet Fetterman's actions underscore a growing rift within the party.
A Pro-Immigration Stance with Firm Borders
Despite his criticisms, Fetterman reiterated his identity as "a very pro-immigration Democrat," citing his family's immigrant background. "My views have never changed. My family was the product of immigration, and I haven't changed my views on anything," he affirmed. However, he stressed the necessity of border security, asserting, "For me, it's always like, secure our border. You know, every nation must do those things." He advocated for deporting criminals, asking, "And why can't we agree we have to round up every single criminal and deport them, send them back?"
This stance positions Fetterman at a crossroads, balancing humanitarian values with pragmatic security measures, as Democrats grapple with internal divisions and external pressures over immigration policy.
