In a conversation with ABC's Jonathan Karl, Sanders remarked, "I mean, I think cracking down on fentanyl, making sure our borders are stronger." This statement aired during a pre-recorded segment on ABC's "This Week."
According to Fox News, Sanders' comments mark a notable shift from his previous stance during the 2020 presidential campaign. At that time, he advocated for dismantling U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), halting deportations pending an audit, and opposing the construction of the border wall. Sanders also supported ending the "Remain in Mexico" policy, decriminalizing illegal immigration by reclassifying it as a civil infraction, and lifting restrictions on federal funding for sanctuary cities.
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In his discussion with Karl, Sanders emphasized the need for comprehensive immigration reform while acknowledging the necessity of border security. "Look, nobody thinks illegal immigration is appropriate," he stated. "And I happen to think we need comprehensive immigration reform, but I don't think that it's appropriate for people to be coming across the border illegally."
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Sanders also warned against the potential consequences of mass deportations, suggesting that deporting "20 million people who are in this country who are undocumented" would "destroy the entire country." He argued that illegal immigrants play a crucial role in the U.S. economy, stating, "Because I got news for you: Trump's billionaire friends are not going to pick the crops in California that feed us. They're not going to work in meat-packing houses."
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When Karl pointed out that illegal immigration had "exploded under Biden," Sanders conceded, "Should have done much better, no argument." This acknowledgment reflects a broader critique of the current administration's handling of immigration issues.
Sanders has been actively engaging with the public through his "Fighting Oligarchy Tour," where he is joined by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
At a rally at Arizona State University, Ocasio-Cortez addressed the crowd, saying, "No matter who you voted for in the past, no matter if you know all the right words to say, no matter your race, religion, gender identity or status, no matter even if you disagree with me on a few things, if you are willing to fight for someone you don’t know, you are welcome here."