Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake accuses President Biden and Rep. Ruben Gallego of neglecting border security, leading to increased illegal crossings and drug trafficking.
In a scathing indictment of President Biden and Rep. Ruben Gallego, Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake has lambasted them for their alleged failure to secure the border. Speaking on "Fox News @ Night," Lake charged that the lack of resources for law enforcement and Homeland Security officials at the border has resulted in a surge of illegal crossings and drug trafficking.
"The situation at our border is a national crisis, and Biden and Gallego's inaction has only made it worse," Lake declared. "Our brave border patrols and Homeland Security agents are understaffed and overstretched, and they are being forced to fight with one hand tied behind their backs."
Lake Blasts Biden, Gallego for 'Failing to Secure the Border'
Lake, who is considered the front-runner in the Republican primary for the Senate seat currently held by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, has made border security a central plank of her campaign. She has pledged to increase funding for border patrols, strengthen border barriers, and crack down on human smuggling and drug trafficking.
"We need to send a message that the border is closed and that those who attempt to cross illegally will be met with the full force of the law," Lake said. "We can no longer afford to turn a blind eye to the crisis at our border."
Lake Blasts Biden, Gallego for 'Failing to Secure the Border'
Lake's criticism of Biden and Gallego comes as the state of Arizona faces a surge in illegal crossings. According to the Department of Homeland Security, over 3,000 individuals were apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border in January 2024, a nearly 50% increase from the same month in 2023.
Lake also highlighted the rise in drug trafficking, which she attributed to the lack of border security. She cited recent data showing that fentanyl seizures at the border had more than doubled in the past year.
Lake Blasts Biden, Gallego for 'Failing to Secure the Border'
"Fentanyl is a deadly drug that is poisoning our communities," Lake warned. "Our families deserve to live in safe neighborhoods, and we need to do everything in our power to keep this dangerous substance off our streets."
Lake's comments have resonated with many Arizonans who are concerned about the impact of illegal immigration and drug trafficking on their communities. In a recent poll, 65% of Arizona voters said that they believe the border crisis is a "significant problem."
Lake Blasts Biden, Gallego for 'Failing to Secure the Border'
As the Republican primary draws near, Lake's tough stance on border security is expected to give her an advantage over her rivals. Former President Trump has endorsed Lake, who is a vocal supporter of his policies.
If Lake emerges victorious in the primary, she will face off against Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego in the November general election. Gallego, who is unopposed in the Democratic primary, has also made border security a focus of his campaign, but his approach differs from that of Lake.
Gallego has proposed expanding legal immigration pathways and providing more resources for border patrol agents. He has also called for addressing the root causes of illegal immigration in Central America.
The race between Lake and Gallego is expected to be one of the most closely watched in the country, with the outcome potentially having a significant impact on the future of border security policy in the United States.
