As the border crisis continues to be a pressing issue for the Biden administration, Vice President Kamala Harris finds herself at the center of the debate over migration policies. Despite clarifications that she is not in charge of managing the southern border, Harris faces criticism from Republicans, with former President Donald Trump falsely labeling her as the 'border czar.'
The surge in border crossings has put a spotlight on the administration's immigration record, prompting aggressive measures to tighten asylum policies. Harris has been tasked with addressing root causes of migration in Central America, with a focus on private-sector investments to create economic opportunities in the region.
While the issue of border security has become a political liability for Biden, Harris has emphasized her efforts in diplomacy and long-term solutions. However, critics have pointed to her initial response to visiting the US-Mexico border as a potential vulnerability.
Despite facing attacks from Republicans and being labeled as a 'border czar,' Harris has worked to engage with foreign leaders and secure private-sector investments in Central America. The Partnership for Central America, spearheaded by Harris, has facilitated over $5 billion in investments across various sectors to boost the region's economy.
Experts acknowledge Harris' success in securing private-sector investments as a significant achievement, although concerns remain about the sustainability of these initiatives. While the direct impact on migration is challenging to measure, data shows a decrease in migrants arriving at the southern border from countries like Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.
Overall, Harris' efforts in addressing root causes of migration in Central America have garnered praise for laying the groundwork to improve lives in the region. As the border crisis continues to evolve, Harris navigates one of the most politically fraught issues, balancing diplomacy, economic development, and border security in her role as Vice President.
