In a recent appearance on CNN’s “NewsNight,” Senior Commentator Van Jones urged Democrats to not back down in the ongoing government shutdown over funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Jones asserted that while the airport delays caused by the shutdown are certainly inconvenient, the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are a much bigger inconvenience for many Americans.
Jones asserted that the shutdown should not be ended until a deal is reached that includes protections for DACA recipients and a more humane and reasonable approach to immigration enforcement. He stressed the importance of Democrats staying strong in their position and not giving in to pressure from the Trump administration.
The DHS shutdown, which began on December 22, 2018, has caused major disruptions in airports across the country as TSA agents and other airport employees continue to work without pay. This has led to long lines, delays, and frustration for travelers. However, Jones believes that these inconveniences are a small price to pay compared to the consequences of ICE’s actions.
Jones highlighted the recent case of a 39-year-old Mexican man who died in ICE custody after being apprehended by Border Patrol agents. He pointed out that this is just one of the many instances of ICE’s harsh and inhumane tactics that have resulted in the deaths of innocent individuals. Jones also brought attention to the separation of families at the border and the inhumane treatment of immigrants in detention centers.
These actions of ICE have sparked widespread outrage and have been heavily criticized by human rights organizations and Democrats alike. Jones emphasized that this is a critical issue that should not be overlooked in the midst of the government shutdown.
Jones also addressed the issue of DACA recipients, also known as Dreamers, who were brought to the United States illegally as children and are currently protected from deportation under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. With the current DACA protections set to expire, Democrats are pushing for a permanent solution that would provide a pathway to citizenship for these young immigrants.
Jones urged Democrats to remain steadfast in their demand for protections for Dreamers, stating that it is a moral and ethical obligation to protect these individuals who have known no other home than the United States.
In the face of criticism from the Trump administration and others who accuse Democrats of being unreasonable and putting politics over the well-being of the American people, Jones urged Democrats to stay strong and not back down. He stated that it would be a major mistake to compromise on these critical issues, as the consequences could be dire for millions of people.
Jones also called on Republicans to join forces with Democrats and put an end to the government shutdown. He stressed the importance of bipartisanship in finding a solution that not only addresses the funding for the DHS but also protects the rights and well-being of immigrants.
In conclusion, while the DHS shutdown has caused significant disruptions and inconvenience, Van Jones reminds us that the much bigger issue at hand is the actions of ICE and the fate of millions of immigrants in this country. Democrats, he says, must remain committed to their principles and not give in to pressure, as the consequences of compromising on these issues could be devastating. Let us hope that both parties can come together and find a solution that puts an end to the shutdown and ensures the protection and fair treatment of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.