Media Tip Sheet: Democrats and Republicans Find Common Ground on Immigration Reform


December 13, 2023

The possibility of immigration reform is growing with both Democrats and Republicans finding common ground on border security issues. Factors contributing to this potential development include record-high border apprehensions, Democratic officials urging action on border security, and President Biden's willingness to link the issue to funding for Ukraine and Israel. 

However, challenges such as time constraints, differing priorities between the House and Senate, and potential resistance from pro-immigrant groups remain significant obstacles to reaching a comprehensive deal. 

If you would like more context on this matter, please consider Elizabeth Vaquera, who joined the George Washington University in 2016 as the inaugural Director of the Cisneros Hispanic Leadership Institute and an associate professor of sociology and public policy and public administration. Vaquera's research focuses on vulnerable and diverse groups, particularly Latinos/as and immigrants. Her work has analyzed the character and importance of immigrant status, race, and ethnic identity in outcomes such as education, health, and emotional and social well-being. In her role as Director of the Cisneros Institute, Vaquera translates this work by designing and leading programs for high-achieving Hispanic students at the pre-college and university level. In addition to an extensive body of work published in leading peer-reviewed journals, Vaquera is the co-author of several books, the most recent of which, Education and Immigration, examines the educational experiences of immigrants and their children living in the U.S.

If you would like to speak with Vaquera, please contact GW Media Relations Specialist Tayah Frye at [email protected]

-GW-