President Biden is attempting to launch a Latino Outreach Voter Initiative in attempt to sway the Latino vote.
"Latinos were essential to my win in 2020, and they'll be again essential," affirmed Biden. "I'm working hard to earn their vote."
This comes amid criticism from the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, who have warned Biden against giving in to GOP demands on stiffer protocols on border security and immigration.
Biden rhetoric on issues of immigration and border safety hasn't endeared him to some representatives.
"I don't think the Biden administration was going to get any credit for going Republican lite on immigration," Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas) told Punchbowl News. "We're never going to be halfway on the issue of immigration."
Firebrand Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) has accused the administration of copying former President Donald Trump to appease moderates, calling possible restrictions "outrageous."
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus released a statement calling Biden's consideration of using executive order power "unbelievable."
The CHC further stated that they were not briefed on the matter at all. The CHC also felt snubbed by the administration during border talks in the Senate and argued it was unfair that there were not any Hispanic or immigrant representatives at the table.
Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-San Pedro) brought this up at a House Democrat retreat, usually a time for partying and unity.
"It's completely unacceptable that the Hispanic Caucus would not be at the table on the issue that we lead on, which is immigration," Barragán said. "We've got to continue to not just talk about it, but making sure something is done. We will continue to fight for that."
DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, who faced impeachment for his alleged handling of the southern border by House Republicans, had a meeting with nine CHC members that revealed the group's growing discontent.
"Up until that point, we hadn't been engaged and we hadn't been informed about the communication going on between the Senate and the White House," said Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D-Texas), who attended the meeting.
"[The Hispanic vote] is not a freebee," she added. "He's got to go out there and earn it, but I think most people are pretty happy."
