Latest Breaking News: Republican Presidential Candidate Discusses Immigration Policies*
In a recent interview, a Republican presidential candidate tackled critical issues surrounding immigration, shedding light on their stance and proposed solutions. The candidate, a former military servicemember with experience overseas, responded to questions from Joseph, a business consultant from Des Moines, on the complex matter of border security and the potential use of force against illegal migrants.
Joseph posed a scenario, questioning the candidate about the idea of using lethal force against individuals crossing the border, mainly low-level drug mules, excluding women and children. The candidate rejected the notion, emphasizing the importance of a strategic and measured approach in military operations. Drawing on their personal experience in overseas military service, the candidate highlighted the need for positive identification of individuals exhibiting hostile intent before engaging.
The conversation shifted to the pressing issue of fentanyl trafficking, with the candidate highlighting the cartels’ exploitation of vulnerabilities in the border wall. The candidate challenged critics to address the rising fentanyl-related deaths and emphasized the need for a proactive stance to protect American communities. Drawing on personal encounters with families affected by fentanyl overdoses during their travels in Iowa, the candidate expressed a deep commitment to combating the drug crisis.
The candidate then addressed the question of intelligence and surveillance, assuring that the United States possesses the necessary tools, including drones and intel, to address border security effectively. The candidate argued that it’s a matter of will, reinforcing their commitment to taking decisive action. They also underscored their leadership on this issue, noting that they were the first candidate to advocate for such measures.
As the discussion progressed, the topic of birthright citizenship emerged. The candidate clarified their position on birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, stating their intention to challenge the interpretation of the 14th Amendment. They argued that the amendment, meant to grant citizenship to African-Americans, was not intended to provide citizenship to those born to illegal immigrants, calling it an unintended incentive for illegal immigration.
The candidate proposed using an executive order to address birthright citizenship, acknowledging the potential for legal challenges. They expressed confidence in the legal validity of their position, citing the original intent of the 14th Amendment as grounds for their stance. The candidate contrasted their commitment to follow through on promises with a critique of former President Donald Trump, questioning his failure to sign an executive order despite campaigning on the same issue.
In response to the interviewer’s inquiry about trust in Donald Trump, the candidate delicately expressed reservations about relying on promises that were not fulfilled in the past. The candidate suggested that voters might question the likelihood of Trump delivering on similar pledges in the future, citing his track record during his first term.