Can Trump’s border issue secure him a second term?

Can “Build the Wall” Propel Trump Again in 2024?

“You’re fired” may have made former President Donald Trump a reality TV star, but it was “Build the wall” that propelled him into the White House. Now, as President Joe Biden faces criticism for his handling of the border, the question arises: can this catchphrase work its magic once more in 2024, or have other Republicans stolen Trump’s thunder?

Immigration and Border Control: Trump’s Winning Issues

In the 2016 Republican primary, Trump stood out from the crowd of candidates with his strong stance on immigration and border control. While some of his opponents shared similar views, Trump’s unapologetic rhetoric and prioritization of these issues set him apart. Even those who had previously supported immigration reforms, like Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio, were seen as amnesty advocates by the GOP base.

Early Trump supporters, such as Steve Bannon and Jeff Sessions, favored reductions to legal immigration. Conservative columnist Ann Coulter also championed immigration restrictions in her book, “In Trump We Trust.” However, she later broke with Trump when she felt he didn’t deliver on his promises.

Trump’s rallies were energized by his famous “Build that wall” chants, illustrating his proposal for a physical barrier at the southern border. According to Trump, everything was going well until Biden eased immigration controls, leading to a surge of migrants. Completing the border wall is a key promise Trump makes for his potential rematch against Biden in 2024.

Republicans Divided on the Wall

While some Republicans see the wall as unfinished business or an unfulfilled campaign promise, others, like Governor Ron DeSantis, have taken shots at Trump’s immigration record. DeSantis has his own plan called “Mission Stop the Invasion No Excuses,” emphasizing his commitment to building the wall.

Despite these divisions, most Republicans now align with Trump’s position on immigration. However, the issue will likely play a significant role in the general election, as a majority disapprove of Biden’s handling of immigration.

Whether Trump or another Republican becomes the nominee, the desire to fix the broken immigration system remains strong among Americans. Securing the border and creating a fair path to citizenship are priorities for many, as the current process encourages illegal entry through an unsecure border.