Vice presidential candidate JD Vance has voiced strong criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris regarding the ongoing migrant crisis, particularly in light of recent events in Colorado.
According to Fox News, Vance addressed the situation where a Venezuelan gang allegedly took control of an apartment complex in Aurora, Colorado, during an appearance on "Fox & Friends."
Vance emphasized the need to end sanctuary cities and states, arguing that current border policies have led to the importation of drug cartel activities into American communities. He stressed that this situation is causing suffering among citizens and called for immediate action to address the issue.
The vice presidential candidate expressed his concerns about the impact of illegal immigration on local communities. He emphasized the importance of having a secure border, stating that without one, the United States cannot be considered a real country.
Vance called for cooperation between local communities and federal law enforcement to address the issue of illegal immigrants. He suggested that cities refusing to cooperate with deportation efforts for violent criminals should face potential reductions in federal funding. The candidate also criticized the concept of sanctuary cities, arguing that such policies make communities "poorer and less safe." He advocated for making it against federal law to maintain sanctuary status.
The situation in Aurora, Colorado, has drawn attention from local authorities. Arapahoe County District Attorney John Kellner, who represents Aurora, spoke about the ongoing efforts to address the Tren de Aragua gang's activities.
Kellner assured citizens that law enforcement is actively working to identify and prosecute gang members. He referenced past successes in dealing with transnational gangs, citing the case of MS-13 members who were indicted and prosecuted for various violent crimes.
The District Attorney emphasized the reality of the situation, countering claims that the gang's presence was exaggerated or misinformation. Kellner stated, "I can tell you this is real. It's not imaginary, and it's certainly not misinformation."
There appears to be a difference of opinion regarding the seriousness of the gang's presence in Aurora. While local officials like Kellner and Aurora City Council member Danielle Jurinsky have expressed concern, Colorado Governor Jared Polis has taken a different stance.
Governor Polis, through his spokeswoman Shelby Wieman, suggested that the reported gang invasion was "largely a feature of Danielle Jurinsky's imagination." This statement has led to some tension between local and state officials. Jurinsky responded to the governor's statement, expressing disappointment. The governor's office later clarified that state assistance would be available if needed while also calling on city council members to focus on keeping the city safe rather than "trashing their own city."
The migrant situation has had a significant impact on Denver, which has welcomed over 42,000 migrants since 2022. According to city data, this influx has cost the sanctuary city more than $72 million.
The Tren de Aragua gang has recently gained attention due to its connection to a high-profile case. The brother of the suspect in the killing of Georgia student Laken Riley was reported to have ties to this gang. Both individuals were identified as Venezuelan illegal immigrants. In response to the growing concern over the gang's activities, the U.S. Treasury has designated Tren de Aragua as a significant transnational criminal organization. Financial rewards have been offered for the conviction of three of its leaders.
The situation in Aurora, Colorado, has brought the issues of illegal immigration and gang activity to the forefront of national discourse. JD Vance's criticism of Vice President Harris and current border policies highlights the ongoing debate over how to address these challenges. Local authorities in Colorado are actively working to combat gang presence while conflicting views between state and local officials underscore the complexity of the situation. The impact on cities like Denver and the connection to recent high-profile cases further emphasize the far-reaching consequences of border security policies.
