Senator Kyrsten Sinema has been a prominent figure in the discussion surrounding the U.S.-Mexico border. In an interview with Fox News producer Rich Edson, the Arizona senator blasted President Joe Biden for not visiting the border himself. She said it was a “no brainer” for “anyone who is responsible for setting or making policy.”
“I absolutely think the president should visit the border. In fact, I think anyone who is responsible for setting or making policy on the border should visit the border,” Sinema told Fox News producer Rich Edson during an interview. “I mean, that’s that’s a no brainer, right?”
Sinema is an independent, having re-registered from the Democratic Party in December of 2020. This follows two tumultuous years during which she and Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia refused to scrap the filibuster for legislation. This refusal effectively killed Democratic legislation on several issues.
Sinema showed her continued commitment to the border crisis when she announced she would join Republican Senators Thom Tillis of North Carolina and John Cornyn of Texas on a trip to the border. She also criticized Biden and former Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump for not doing the federal government’s “duty” on the border.
"I absolutely think the president should visit the border. In fact, I think anyone who is responsible for setting or making policy on the border should visit the border. I mean, that's that's a no brainer, right?"
— Rich Edson (@RichEdsonDC) December 20, 2022
It is clear that the current crisis at the border requires a leader willing to visit and observe the situation firsthand. Sinema’s stance shows a commitment to doing what is right, and her criticism of Biden sets a good example for other legislators. While the Democratic Party may not be in favor of her independent stance, her words demonstrate a desire to make sure the situation at the border is addressed properly.
It is time for leaders in Washington to take action and address the border crisis. Sinema’s criticism of Biden is a brave move that should be commended, and her visit to the border will be an important step in the right direction. Hopefully, her words will inspire other legislators to take action and address the border crisis in a meaningful way.
Erica Carlin is an independent journalist, opinion writer and contributor to several news and opinion sources. She is based in Georgia.