Staff Reports
The Biden administration is making changes to its immigration team by bringing in new members, stirring up discussion among critics. A recent report highlighted the addition of Blas Nunez-Neto as the border enforcement policy leader and Marcela Escobari as the economic development expert, who left her post at USAID.
Escobari’s recruitment is seen as a move to tackle the high levels of migration from Central and South America. She brings her experience in international development in Latin America to the National Security Council, focusing on the Los Angeles Declaration for migration cooperation.
Leaving her role at USAID, Escobari steps into the shoes of Kate Tobin to lead the administration’s border efforts. Meanwhile, Nunez-Neto, known for his work at the Department of Homeland Security, takes on a similar role with a focus on seeking middle ground on immigration policies.
Critics have raised concerns about Nunez-Neto’s stance on border enforcement policies, including reverting to asylum practices similar to those under former President Trump. Despite praise from DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, immigration activists question Nunez-Neto’s approach.
The administration’s move to shuffle its immigration team comes at a time of growing disapproval of Biden’s handling of the immigration crisis, possibly indicating efforts to address public concerns. With the upcoming election, these changes may impact voter sentiments towards Biden’s approach to immigration policy.
