A recent Harvard Harris poll conducted on February 19-20 has revealed a surprising divide among Democrats regarding President Joe Biden’s handling of migration policies. According to the survey, 75% of Democrats believe the administration did not intentionally keep the southern border open to allow millions of migrants into the United States. This finding comes amid widespread criticism of the Biden administration’s approach to border security, which critics argue has led to a surge in illegal and quasi-legal immigration. The poll, which included 2,443 registered voters, highlights a stark contrast between the views of Democrats and those of Republicans, with 80% of GOP voters asserting that the administration deliberately encouraged the influx of migrants.
The poll also found that 52% of all Americans share the Republican perspective, believing that the Biden administration’s policies were designed to facilitate mass migration. These policies, spearheaded by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, have been criticized for creating a chaotic and unsustainable system. Migrants have entered the U.S. through a variety of avenues, including parole programs and initiatives like the “Welcome Corps at Work,” which critics argue have been exploited to bypass traditional immigration laws. Despite the administration’s claims that these programs benefit the economy, many Americans view the situation as a deliberate effort to reshape the nation’s demographic and political landscape.
Elon Musk weighed in on the controversy, calling the Democrats’ approach to border security “treason.” In a tweet, Musk argued that the administration’s policies were part of a broader strategy to secure permanent one-party rule by encouraging mass migration. While Musk has expressed support for high levels of skilled immigration through programs like H-1B visas, he has been critical of illegal migration, which he believes undermines American workers. His comments reflect a growing concern among critics that the Biden administration’s policies prioritize political gains over national security and economic stability.
The consequences of these policies have been far-reaching. Beyond the political debate, the surge in migration has had devastating effects on both American citizens and migrants themselves. Tragic stories, such as the death of Georgia’s Laken Riley, have underscored the human cost of lax border enforcement. Additionally, thousands of migrants have lost their lives attempting to cross into the U.S., while others have fallen victim to labor and sex trafficking networks. Critics argue that the administration’s failure to address these issues has not only endangered lives but also strained local communities and economies.
Despite the overwhelming evidence of intentional policy decisions, many Democrats and independents remain reluctant to acknowledge the administration’s role in the crisis. Some, like New York Times writer David Leonhardt, have begun to admit that controlling borders is not only possible but necessary. Leonhardt pointed to countries like Japan and Denmark as examples of effective border management, arguing that modern technology makes enforcement easier than ever. As the debate continues, the poll suggests strong public support for stricter immigration policies, including increased border security and the deportation of undocumented immigrants who commit crimes. This shift in public opinion could have significant implications for future elections and the broader political landscape.