During an appearance on Fox Business Network's "Kudlow" on Wednesday, U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) said Republican inaction on the U.S.-Mexico border could have political implications for his party in next year's election.
Tuberville suggested using aid for Ukraine or Israel as leverage to force Democrats' hand on border action. However, he said some of his fellow Republicans have been reluctant to use that strategy.
"Most dangerous thing in our lifetime is happening right now, Larry," he said. "It's worse than all of the catastrophes — you know, the tornadoes, the hurricanes. All of these people coming across, yesterday, I think, 12,000 came across in one day. We've got to have some of these Republicans on our side stand up and fight for the American people."
"We have the power now to block any money to go to Ukraine or even Israel," Tuberville continued. "We have to stand up, and I'm concerned about this. We have too many that could go the other way. But if we don't, it's going to cost us in the election coming up. We need to stand up for the American people. This is a disaster, the people who are coming across."
Tuberville disputed his colleague U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin's (D-Ill.) suggestion of making illegal immigrants part of the U.S. military to overcome recruiting shortfalls.
Jeff Poor is the editor in chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email jeff.poor@1819News.com or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
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