Youngkin criticizes Harris over illegal immigration in Virginia

Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia has publicly criticized Vice President Kamala Harris regarding the issue of illegal immigration in the state. He referenced a report detailing the case of Enrique Ramirez Cabrera, an alleged illegal immigrant from Peru accused of abducting a girl in Manassas by impersonating a police officer. Youngkin highlighted other incidents involving illegal immigrants, including a man from El Salvador and two individuals who attempted to breach Marine Corps Base Quantico. He expressed disbelief at the situation, noting that approximately 950 illegal immigrants in Virginia's Department of Corrections have open immigration detention orders, with a significant number having prior arrests for violent felonies. Youngkin's comments were made during an appearance on Fox News, where he emphasized the alarming nature of illegal immigration and criticized Harris for her stance on decriminalizing it. He argued that the current immigration policies pose a threat to public safety, as many of those detained have committed serious crimes such as murder and assault. The governor's remarks come amid a broader political context, with the 2024 election approaching and immigration being a key issue. Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares also condemned Harris, asserting that her political agenda compromises the safety of American citizens. He linked the recent abduction case to a sense of betrayal rather than mere negligence. Youngkin's administration is taking steps to address these concerns, including an executive order aimed at protecting election integrity ahead of early voting in September. The governor's statements reflect a growing concern among some Virginia officials regarding the implications of illegal immigration on community safety and the political landscape as the state prepares for upcoming elections.