Democrat’s Attempt to Stigmatize Border Patrol Legislation Fails as Many Support It

Democrat’s Attempt to Stigmatize Border Patrol Legislation Fails as Many Support It

A recent strategy by a House Democrat to undermine a bill designed to make it a federal crime to evade law enforcement within 100 miles of the U.S. border backfired significantly. Last week, this legislation garnered substantial bipartisan support, with dozens of House Democrats voting in favor.

Rep. Janelle Bynum from Oregon publicly urged her colleagues to oppose H.R. 35, characterizing the bill as nothing more than fearmongering disguised as an effort to enhance officer safety. The proposed legislation is named in honor of fallen Border Patrol Agent Raul Gonzalez, who tragically lost his life during a pursuit in 2022.

Bill Overview and Penalties

This pivotal piece of legislation, House Resolution 35, would classify individuals convicted of intentionally fleeing law enforcement in a vehicle as eligible for severe penalties. Convictions could lead to sentences of up to two years in prison and hefty fines. Notably, if a police chase results in a fatality, the convicted individual could face life imprisonment. Furthermore, those in the country illegally could face deportation.

Bynum’s Controversial Claims

In her speech on the House floor, Bynum drew comparisons between H.R. 35 and the historical Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. She condemned the bill, arguing it enforces local authorities to act as federal agents and punishes those who refuse. According to Bynum, both laws share a dark legacy of hunting down individuals seeking freedom. She asserted that today’s legislation similarly coerces local police into enforcing federal mandates.

Legislative Support and Next Steps

Despite Bynum’s impassioned opposition, the bill passed decisively with a vote of 264 to 155. A notable 50 Democrats backed the measure, including several from border states. The focus now shifts to the Senate, where Republican Senator Ted Cruz from Texas is actively championing the proposal.

Accountability for Danger to Communities

Rep. Juan Ciscomani, a Republican from Arizona and one of the bill’s sponsors, emphasized that H.R. 35 sends a strong message. He reiterated the importance of holding individuals accountable for actions that threaten community safety. According to Ciscomani, the legislation ensures that those who endanger lives during police pursuits will face the full measure of the law.

The Border Pursuit Landscape

Police chases along the U.S.-Mexico border have become increasingly frequent due to the activities of smugglers attempting to evade law enforcement. During the Trump administration, there was a notable intensification in border control efforts and immigration policies. This included deploying military personnel to the border and conducting widespread deportation raids across the country.

Bynum’s Political Future

Assuming office just last month, Bynum narrowly defeated former Representative Lori Chavez-DeRemer in the November elections. Chavez-DeRemer is currently on President Donald Trump’s list for nomination as Labor Secretary. Political analysts suggest that Bynum’s seat is likely to be one of the most competitive in the 2026 elections, with the Cook Political Report categorizing it as “Lean Democrat.”

Responses from Critics

The fallout from this legislative battle has drawn sharp responses from critics. National Republican Campaign Committee spokesman Ben Petersen criticized Bynum’s remarks as extreme and misguided. He claimed that her stance aligns with cartel interests over the safety of Border Patrol agents, further jeopardizing the safety of Oregonians.

Final Thoughts

This recent episode illustrates the contentious nature of immigration legislation in the U.S. The support for H.R. 35 among Democrats underscores a divided perspective on law enforcement and border security. As the bill moves to the Senate, it remains to be seen how broader political forces will shape its future.