On July 24, former Secret Service agent and outspoken conservative media personality Dan Bongino unleashed a scathing critique of mainstream media. Taking to social media, Bongino declared, “Absolutely no dignity left in the communist media,” in reaction to an Axios article addressing Vice President Kamala Harris’s challenges with managing migration issues.
The Axios piece underscored the confusion about Harris’s role, assigned by President Biden in early 2021, in handling aspects of the migration crisis. This misinterpretation has led to GOP attacks, particularly branding her as the “border czar.”
Harris’s Role Misunderstood
The article highlighted the political and media misinterpretations surrounding Harris’s assignment. Harris’s position has been a target for critiques, with opponents using this narrative to scrutinize her handling of border issues and its implications on her potential presidential campaign.
Former President Donald Trump exacerbated these critiques, blaming a surge in illegal immigration and related crimes on Harris’s management. Trump asserted, “Harris was appointed ‘border czar’ in March of 2021, and since that time, millions and millions of illegal aliens have invaded our country and countless Americans have been killed by migrant crime because of her willful demolition of American borders and laws.”
GOP’s Criticism
Echoing Trump’s sentiments, House GOP Chair Elise Stefanik introduced a resolution condemning Harris and the administration for failing to secure U.S. borders. The GOP’s narrative intensifies the scrutiny on Harris’s role and its impact on her political future.
Defending Harris
Despite the criticisms, Harris’s supporters, including former DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson, have defended her position. Johnson clarified that Harris’s responsibilities align with those Biden had during the Obama administration, focusing on diplomacy with Central America rather than direct border enforcement.
Immigration: A Pressing Issue
Immigration remains a hot-button issue for U.S. voters. Recent Gallup polls show a majority favor reducing immigration levels, emphasizing the need for a clear and effective border policy from Harris.
Biden Campaign’s Response
In response, the Biden campaign has shifted blame to Republican opposition for thwarting a bipartisan border deal, while pointing to recent declines in border crossings as proof of effective policies under Harris and Biden’s leadership.
Advocates’ Optimism
Immigration advocates remain optimistic about Harris’s potential administration, citing her legislative efforts for Dreamers and other immigration-related issues. Kerri Talbot, director of Immigration Hub, praised Harris’s experience and knowledge in the field.
Bongino’s Broader Critique
Bongino’s scathing remarks reflect broader conservative frustrations with perceived media bias. His statement, “no dignity left in the communist media,” highlights the intense polarization surrounding immigration and media coverage in today’s political climate.
As the debate over immigration continues to rage, the media’s role in shaping public perception remains crucial. Dan Bongino’s critique underscores the ongoing conflict between conservative voices and mainstream media narratives, particularly concerning Vice President Kamala Harris’s handling of migration issues.
