Border Mayors Implore Presidential Candidates to Visit U.S.-Mexico Border

Mayors from Arizona and Texas emphasize the diverse needs of different border regions, underscoring the importance for the next president to personally witness the complexities at the U.S.-Mexico border.

In a united plea, mayors from border towns in Arizona and Texas are urging presidential candidates to make the U.S.-Mexico border a priority and to visit the region firsthand to gain a comprehensive understanding of its challenges and opportunities.

"Every section of the border has different needs," emphasized Yuma, Arizona Mayor Douglas Nicholls. "It's imperative for the next president to visit and see the reality of the situation."

Border Mayors Implore Presidential Candidates to Visit U.S.-Mexico Border

Nogales, Arizona Mayor Arturo Garino echoed this sentiment, highlighting the unique issues faced by his city, which shares a border with Nogales, Mexico. "We have a unique binational community, and we need a president who understands that," he said.

McAllen, Texas Mayor Javier Villalobos stressed the importance of economic development and cross-border cooperation. "The border is a region of growth and potential," he said. "We need a president who will work with us to create jobs and improve the quality of life for our residents."

Border Mayors Implore Presidential Candidates to Visit U.S.-Mexico Border

El Paso, Texas Mayor Dee Margo emphasized the need for a comprehensive border security strategy. "We need a president who will enforce our laws and protect our borders," he said. "But we also need a president who will work with our neighbors to address root causes of migration."

Former President Donald Trump, expected to announce his candidacy for 2024, has made border security a central issue in his past campaigns. He has repeatedly blamed the Biden administration for the current situation at the border, claiming it has become "the worst border in the world."

Border Mayors Implore Presidential Candidates to Visit U.S.-Mexico Border

Trump's critics, however, point to his own policies, such as the separation of families at the border, as contributing to the challenges faced by the Biden administration. They also argue that a comprehensive approach is needed to address the root causes of migration.

Other potential Republican candidates, including former Vice President Mike Pence and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, have also expressed support for a tough stance on border security.

Border Mayors Implore Presidential Candidates to Visit U.S.-Mexico Border

On the Democratic side, President Joe Biden has pledged to reform the immigration system and invest in border security while also addressing the root causes of migration in Central America.

Mayors in border towns hope that the next president, regardless of party affiliation, will engage with them and listen to their concerns. "We're not just a political issue," said Nicholls. "We're real people who live and work on the border."

Border Mayors Implore Presidential Candidates to Visit U.S.-Mexico Border

Garino added, "We need a president who will work with us, not against us. We need a president who will put aside politics and put the people of the border first."

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, both candidates and voters alike should recognize the vital importance of the U.S.-Mexico border. By understanding the diverse needs and challenges of the region, the next president can develop a comprehensive approach that secures our borders, supports economic growth, and strengthens our relationship with our neighbors to the south.

Border Mayors Implore Presidential Candidates to Visit U.S.-Mexico Border