President Biden made headlines at a campaign reception on Wednesday night when he took a swipe at two of America’s partners, Japan and India, calling them xenophobic and suggesting they do not want immigrants. The comments, made in the context of voicing his commitment to America’s long history of immigration, have the potential to strain diplomatic relations with these key allies.
Despite the potential diplomatic fallout, White House national security spokesman John F. Kirby defended the president’s remarks, stating that Mr. Biden was emphasizing America’s immigrant “DNA” and not intending to insult other countries. Kirby also highlighted the strong relationships the administration has with Japan and India, suggesting that they understand the president’s perspective.
The president’s comments come at a time when he is facing pressure to address the ongoing immigration challenges at the southern border. While Mr. Biden has signed off on restrictive immigration legislation, he is also considering using executive power to enact a severe crackdown on asylum. This balancing act reflects the political challenges the president faces as he seeks a second term in the White House.
Throughout his presidency, Mr. Biden has sought to differentiate himself from his predecessor, Donald J. Trump, by advocating for a more humane approach to immigration. However, as the situation at the border has worsened, the president has faced criticism from both Republicans and Democrats for his handling of the issue.
As the debate over immigration policy continues, advocates like Maribel Hernández Rivera of the A.C.L.U. are hopeful that the president’s comments at the fundraiser indicate a willingness to reconsider some of the tougher proposals on the table. Ultimately, Mr. Biden’s stance on immigration will be a key issue as he navigates the complex political landscape in the coming months.
