Voters blame Kamala Harris for surge in illegal immigration at the border

A recent New York Times/Siena College poll indicates that a significant majority of likely voters attribute blame to Vice President Kamala Harris for the unprecedented levels of illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border over the past three and a half years. The poll, conducted from September 3 to September 6, reveals that 63 percent of respondents believe Harris deserves either a lot or some blame for the situation. This perception stems from her appointment by President Biden in April 2021 to lead efforts in addressing the surge in migration, which led to her being labeled as the 'border czar.' Despite her attempts to distance herself from the immigration issue, the poll shows that only 16 percent of likely voters feel she bears no responsibility. The blame is particularly pronounced among specific demographics, with 74 percent of white non-college-educated voters and 63 percent of swing voters indicating they hold her accountable. In contrast, only 43 percent of likely voters trust Harris more than former President Donald Trump on immigration matters, with Trump receiving 53 percent support. The poll highlights a growing discontent among voters regarding the current administration's handling of immigration, which has seen nearly 7 million migrants enter the U.S. since Biden took office. Harris's commitment to continuing Biden's immigration policies, which have favored foreign workers in the labor market, contrasts sharply with Trump's hardline stance on immigration and mass deportations. As the political landscape evolves, the implications of these perceptions could significantly impact the upcoming elections, particularly among swing voters who are crucial for both parties. The findings suggest that Harris's role in immigration policy may be a pivotal issue for voters as they assess the administration's overall performance.