House Speaker Mike Johnson Targets Vice President Harris on Immigration Policies During Border Visit

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is set to visit the southern border in California to advocate for the Republican election integrity bill and criticize the Biden administration's immigration policies. This visit comes in the wake of President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, prompting Republicans to shift their focus to Vice President Kamala Harris, who has been labeled the administration's "border czar." Johnson will hold a press conference in San Ysidro, California, alongside Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA), and will tour U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities. California, particularly San Diego, has become a focal point for border crossings, making it a strategic location for Republicans to challenge Harris's record. The timing of Johnson's visit coincides with a recent vote in which all Republicans and six Democrats condemned Harris in her role related to border issues. As immigration remains a top concern for voters ahead of the November elections, Republicans are increasingly targeting Harris, shifting their narrative from President Biden's age and health. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) criticized the GOP's focus on Harris, asserting that there is no official "border czar" position and accusing Republicans of fabricating this narrative to distract from their legislative shortcomings. Johnson, however, has labeled Harris as a "co-owner" of the policies contributing to the current immigration crisis, emphasizing the Republican stance on border security. Despite the passage of the Secure the Border Act in the House, Republicans have resisted bringing a bipartisan Senate bill to a vote, influenced by former President Donald Trump's opposition to the deal.