Senator Catherine Cortez Masto admits Democrats struggle with immigration issues.

Cortez Masto Reflects on Immigration Issues

Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, representing Nevada, candidly admitted in a recent interview that Democrats have historically struggled with immigration policies. This acknowledgment comes in the wake of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) oversight being significantly hampered due to funding disputes among Democrats and various Cabinet agencies.

During her conversation with host Michael Barbaro, she was asked whether the party’s current stance might seem weak on immigration. “I think, traditionally, we’ve seen Democrats appear weak on this issue,” Cortez Masto replied.

When pressed further on whether she would fully concede this reality, she affirmed, “Yes, of course,” adding her belief that a balanced approach is necessary. “I know we can protect our borders while addressing the serious issues of human and drug trafficking,” she noted.

The former Nevada Attorney General emphasized the need for secured borders and respectful treatment of immigrants. “We can find that balance—funding border security while also establishing an immigration process that honors those who come here legally, contribute to society, and support their families,” she explained.

Cortez Masto criticized her party for its communication failures on immigration, suggesting that the Biden administration has been overly cautious. “Democrats have shied away from discussing the balance between security and humanitarian efforts,” she said, reflecting on the previous administration’s hesitance to tackle border security openly.

“This is how people think across the country,” she remarked, highlighting that the public can recognize the complexities and desires for both security and compassion.

Barbaro challenged her regarding the ongoing budget conflicts affecting DHS, asking how defunding immigration enforcement agencies could be perceived. Cortez Masto clarified, “We’re not looking to entirely defund ICE; we propose maintaining their funding while collaborating with local law enforcement” to address violent crime.

She suggested diverting funding from larger initiatives to empower local police departments instead. “They know our communities best,” she argued, suggesting that local agencies are better equipped to handle community dynamics while respecting constitutional rights.

In the context of funding disputes, a spokesperson for the DHS Office of Inspector General mentioned that many audits had to be put on hold during the ongoing government shutdown.

Democratic leaders have been advocating for stricter oversight of ICE since taking charge, contrasting sharply with previous approaches that sent federal agents into urban areas to enforce immigration laws.