In the Southwest United States, immigration politics are reshaping congressional races, particularly in districts along the U.S.-Mexico border. This 1,954-mile frontier has become a focal point for debates on national security, humanitarian concerns, and economic impact.
Three crucial districts that flipped in 2022 are now witnessing rematches. These include the seats held by Democratic Representative Gabe Vasquez in New Mexico and Republican Representatives Juan Ciscomani in Arizona and Monica De La Cruz in Texas. The outcomes of these contests could determine control of Congress, highlighting the significance of border issues in national politics.
The complexity of the situation is evident in Sunland Park, New Mexico, where local business owner Robert Ardovino observes daily border activities. His perspective challenges the notion of an "open border," emphasizing the difficulties faced by migrants and law enforcement alike.
"It's very obvious to me, being on the border, that it's not an open border. It is a very, very, very difficult situation."
The urgency of addressing border issues varies across districts. In New Mexico's 2nd Congressional District, where partisan control has flipped three times in the past six years, Gabe Vasquez is vying to become the first Democrat to win reelection since 1978. Vasquez, the U.S.-born son of immigrants, emphasizes his understanding of the region's complexities.
Border enforcement remains a top priority for candidates across party lines. In Arizona, Republican incumbent Juan Ciscomani shares his own immigrant story, having arrived in the U.S. at age 11 and gaining citizenship 18 years ago. This approach allows him to advocate for strict enforcement while acknowledging the immigrant community's contributions.
The humanitarian crisis along the border has intensified, with a surge in migrant deaths from heat exposure reported in New Mexico's 180-mile border section. This grim reality underscores the life-and-death nature of border politics in the region.
Efforts to address these challenges have seen some bipartisan cooperation. Vasquez and Ciscomani have co-sponsored bills to modernize temporary farmworker visas and combat opioid trafficking. However, partisan divisions persist, as evidenced by the swift rejection of a major bipartisan border bill 19 months ago.
The impact of border issues extends beyond politics, affecting local communities and businesses. Luis Soto, a Sunland Park resident attempting to open a cannabis dispensary, notes how migrant crossings strain local resources and delay essential services.
As the 2024 elections approach, candidates must navigate a complex landscape. They face the challenge of addressing voter concerns about border security while also recognizing the economic and cultural contributions of immigrant communities. The outcomes of these races will likely have significant implications for national immigration policy and the political landscape of the Southwest.