During a White House press briefing, Fox News White House correspondent Peter Doocy confronted White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre regarding a video depicting illegal immigrants rushing across the border in El Paso, Texas.
The footage captured a group of illegal migrants dismantling barriers and forcefully entering the United States, overwhelming Texas National Guard officials stationed at the border. According to a source from Texas law enforcement, the group comprised over 300 individuals, with approximately a hundred adult men overpowering the guardsmen.
In response to Doocy’s inquiry about President Biden’s stance on the incident, Jean-Pierre shifted blame to Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott, attributing the presence of the Texas National Guard and the alleged politicization of the border crisis to his actions.
Doocy persisted, questioning the administration’s commitment to a humane immigration system in light of the video’s portrayal of adult men physically engaging with U.S. troops. He suggested that such actions elsewhere would prompt a reinforcement response from President Biden.
Jean-Pierre reiterated that all individuals involved were apprehended by Border Patrol agents and emphasized the necessity of resources and support for law enforcement on the ground. She pointed out the involvement of the Texas National Guard, attributing their presence to Governor Abbott’s directives rather than federal decisions.
Further discussion touched on legislative efforts, including the Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, aimed at addressing border security issues. Senate Republicans’ blockage of the bill was highlighted, with Jean-Pierre stressing the need for bipartisan solutions.
The White House tied the surge in border apprehensions to policy changes made during former President Trump’s administration, pointing out increases since President Biden took office. Immigration concerns have become a focal point for potential voters, with a Gallup poll indicating heightened public attention to the issue.
