Biden Pledges to Address Illegal Immigration in DNC Speech

August 21, 2024
Biden Pledges to Address Illegal Immigration in DNC Speech
  • Biden Vows to Tackle Illegal Immigration in DNC Speech

Speaking at the Democratic National Convention (DNC), Joe Biden declared that he and Vice President Kamala Harris are dedicated to "strengthening illegal immigration".

On Monday night, the American president spoke to an audience in Chicago and emphasised his track record as the nation's leader.

"Unlike Trump, we will not demonise immigrants, saying they poison the blood of America," he added in reference to immigration. Is the blood of our nation poisonous?

"Kamala and I are committed to strengthening illegal immigration, including protecting dreamers and more."

For context, Biden had been talking about when Republicans blocked a $118 billion bill that included $20 billion for securing the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy changes in February.

The bill was seemingly on course to become law but ultimately failed, with many Democrats blaming Trump's warning that it would be "a great gift to the Democrats, and a Death Wish for The Republican Party."

Biden went on to discuss the executive action he took, claiming that "there are fewer border crossings today than when Trump left office."

It was at this point that he differentiated himself, saying that the Democrats "do not demonize immigrants."

He continued by stating: "And here's what else I believe in, protecting your freedom—your freedom to vote, your freedom to love who you love and your freedom to choose."

Several social media pages, including an official Trump campaign account on X, have uploaded a video of Biden declaring, "Kamala and I are committed to strengthening illegal immigration."

Trump War Room shared the snippet, attracting multiple comments. Journalist and commentator Cam Higby said: "Damn right he did."

Another account (@ULTRA_MAJESTY) took the same tone when they wrote: "Biden finally telling the truth."

Similarly, Trump-supporter Nick Jay said: "First thing he said that was truthful."

Immigration has long been high up on the list of important issues in the United States. A recent poll found by the London-based global polling firm Redfield & Wilton Strategies found it was the third-most pressing issue for voters, behind the economy and abortion.

The survey was conducted on August 15, when 1,500 eligible voters were questioned. Researchers disclaim a 2.53 percent margin of error.

Generally, polls are showing a close contest in the race for the White House, with Harris a few points ahead.

Polling aggregation site RealClearPolling has Harris at 48.2 percent and Trump at 46.7 percent. Similarly, 538 has Harris at 46.7 percent and Trump at 43.8 percent.