California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday backed Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., and other Democrats’ criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris, after Harris told migrants on Monday not to come to the U.S.-Mexico border.
"As it relates to her comments, we only say this: We believe — I certainly believe — (in the) right for people to seek asylum in a safe way, and I believe the entire immigration system needs to be reformed," Newsom said Friday, in a press conference following the state’s second vaccine lottery, when asked about the progressive criticism Harris has faced.
"California has long had, from my perspective at least in the past few decades, a more enlightened approach to immigration, a more inclusive approach," he added.
During her first overseas trip this week, Harris spoke alongside Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei, telling migrants, “If you come to our border, you will be turned back.”
"I want to be clear to folks in this region who are thinking about making that dangerous trek to the United States-Mexico border: Do not come." Harris said. "Do not come."
Ocasio-Cortez called Harris’ comments “disappointing” in a series of tweets Monday, arguing that the U.S. has yet to “acknowledge its contributions to destabilization and regime change” in Latin America.
Newsom, who endorsed the former California senator in her presidential run, said he “couldn’t be more proud” of President Joe Biden’s administration “turning the page” from former President Donald Trump’s with “a more enlightened immigration approach in policy.”
"I had the pleasure of being with Health and Human Services Secretary (Xavier) Becerra a week ago talking about how California can be more supportive in terms of the needs of asylum seekers, particularly young children," he said. "We have continued to approach these efforts with the federal government in the spirit of collaboration and cooperation."
Related
