Democratic Congressional Hopeful Acknowledges Border Crisis Reality

By Staff Reporter |

As the election approaches, Democratic congressional candidate Kirsten Engel acknowledges the border situation as a crisis. This marks a notable shift from her earlier stance, where she dismissed the notion of a crisis during her initial congressional campaign in 2021.

Engel’s evolving position emerged in a recent interview with NOTUS, where it was reported that she had previously resisted labeling the border situation as a crisis. Following feedback from her campaign, the article underwent a correction, removing the earlier assertion and highlighting Engel’s new perspective. In a February op-ed for the Arizona Republic, she remarked, “for far too long, southern Arizona has shouldered the brunt of our nation’s border crisis.”

In her 2024 campaign, Engel is emphasizing the critical nature of border issues, citing the need for increased manpower, technology, and security measures. Notably absent from her current platform is a commitment to completing the border wall, a measure she previously criticized as outdated.

Engel’s support for ending Title 42, which allowed for the expulsion of undocumented immigrants, reflects her shifting views on immigration policy. Previously, she had downplayed surges in illegal immigration as a crisis, a claim that has now been reconsidered.

Her opponent, Republican incumbent Juan Ciscomani, has capitalized on Engel’s previous denials in his campaign. The border remains a focal point for voters, as a recent poll revealed that 63 percent support enhanced border security measures, including Proposition 314, aimed at empowering local law enforcement in immigration enforcement.

Ciscomani advocates for completing the border wall, reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and curtailing the catch and release practice. His stance contrasts sharply with Engel’s, illustrating the divergent approaches to border security in the upcoming election.

Both candidates are acutely aware of the pressing concerns surrounding immigration policies as they vie for voter support. As the campaign progresses, Engel’s adaptation to framing the border situation reflects the increasing urgency of the issue in Arizona politics.