In a strategic move to counteract Republican criticisms, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris made her first visit to the U.S.-Mexico border since 2021. This visit comes at a time when polls indicate that many Americans trust former President Donald Trump more than Harris when it comes to immigration policies.

During her visit in Cochise County, Arizona—an area notorious for record high border crossings—Harris criticized Trump for promoting scapegoating rather than effective solutions. "We can and must do both," she proclaimed, referring to the need for both border security and a humane immigration system.

Trump has been vocal, claiming Harris is "getting killed" on immigration and pointing to legislation she supports regarding border security as "the worst bill ever drawn." This statement adds fuel to the ongoing narrative that Harris's immigration approach is not resonating well with voters.

Local rancher Jim Chilton, a supporter of Trump, expressed skepticism about Harris's commitment to addressing border security, pointing out that he has witnessed first-hand the consequences of what he believes has been lax immigration policies. Chilton mentioned how undocumented migrants traverse his land, and, despite posting warnings against trespassing, he has taken steps to provide water for those crossing, indicating the humanitarian crisis at the border.

In towns like Douglas, residents are feeling the pressure. Some have taken matters into their own hands, erecting brick walls around their properties to deter migrants from hiding in their yards. A sentiment echoed even by some local Democrats, who admit to feeling safer under Trump's administration.

Harris's promises to toughen asylum laws and resuscitate bipartisan security measures from the Trump era show her struggle to find a balanced approach in a polarized political climate. While some, like dedicated volunteer Gail Kochorek, fear that increasing restrictions dehumanize migrants seeking a better life, she nonetheless intends to support Harris over Trump, highlighting the complex emotions surrounding this contentious subject.

In a turn of irony, while Trump promises to seal the border and ramp up enforcement—including the largest mass deportation campaign in U.S. history—he recently urged Republicans to abandon the very bipartisan attempt at immigration reform he once blocked.

Harris's border visit appears to be a calculated attempt to manage the narrative surrounding her position amid a growing migration crisis. While she has focused on addressing root causes of migration from Central America, such as poverty and violence, the results of her two-part strategy remain uncertain. As the political landscape shifts more to the right, Harris faces an uphill battle in reconciling the legal and humanitarian dimensions of immigration reform.

The border crisis continues to be a significant vulnerability for the vice president, as she navigates these challenging waters leading up to the elections. Will her visit and newly announced plans redefine the conversation around immigration, or will they fall flat under the weight of a polarized electorate? Only time will tell.