ROCKY MOUNT, North Carolina — In a battleground congressional district in eastern North Carolina, immigration has become a key issue ahead of next month’s election, despite being over a thousand miles from the U.S.-Mexico border.
Republicans are using immigration as a central part of their campaign against Democratic Rep. Don Davis. His opponent, Republican challenger and retired Army Col. Laurie Buckhout, has made border security her top priority, frequently mentioning it in interviews. Both campaigns feature ads focusing heavily on immigration. In response, Davis has countered by highlighting his multiple visits to the border and his votes for enhanced border security in Congress.
The shift in the Democratic strategy is clear: they aim to take a proactive stance on immigration rather than simply defending against Republican claims. The outcome of their approach could signal broader trends for the party, including Vice President Kamala Harris’ efforts in similar situations.
The focus on immigration in this district may seem unusual at first. Davis’ district is mostly rural and has a history tied to tobacco farming. It has a demographic makeup of 49% white, 40% Black, and only 7% Latino, with no significant immigrant community. However, the immigration debate has permeated nearly every competitive race this election cycle, particularly in this crucial district in North Carolina.
“Every state’s a border state. People are really impacted by it here,” Buckhout stated during an interview at a recent GOP dinner, where supporters enjoyed roasted oysters and barbecue. She emphasized concerns about the economy and drug-related issues, saying residents feel the effects of immigration.
Democrats acknowledge this sentiment. Former President Bill Clinton campaigned in the area recently and noted that the Obama administration deported more undocumented migrants than Trump. He criticized Trump’s rhetoric, asserting it discourages legal immigration and the workforce needed for job creation.
Clinton rallied voters in the bellwether counties of Nash and Wilson, where Davis has faced significant criticism from Buckhout regarding border policies and the Biden administration’s record on drug issues.
The district, which narrowly favored Biden by less than two points in the last election, was redrawn from a district that had supported him by about nine points in 2020. Recent internal polling suggests Davis has a solid lead, but Republicans remain confident they can close the gap, using immigration appeals and embracing Trump’s messaging.
Davis has adopted a tough stance on border issues similar to strategies that helped some Democrats win in previous elections. He emphasizes his border visits and occasionally votes with Republicans on related legislation. “We know these illegal drugs are affecting communities across America, including North Carolina,” Davis remarked after a campaign rally. He supports both comprehensive immigration reform and stricter border policies.
Local Democrats acknowledge that Trump’s immigration rhetoric has shaped the campaign landscape. “Trump made that an issue,” said Cassandra Conover, chair of the Nash County Democratic Party. She pointed out that local candidates have adopted Trump’s themes.
Although abortion has been a significant issue in other congressional races this year, Buckhout has distanced herself from more extreme conservative views. “I am pro-life and support all standard exceptions. A national ban is not on the table for me,” she explained.
Republicans feel optimistic about flipping Davis’ seat as the election approaches. Mick Rankin, chair of the Wilson County Republican Party, expressed confidence but acknowledged the challenge Davis poses as a well-liked figure in the community.
Complicating matters for Republicans, gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson’s controversies may affect other candidates. Democrats have highlighted the connection between Buckhout and Robinson in campaign ads. When asked about Robinson, Buckhout focused on her own campaign. “Mark is running his race. I’m running mine. This is about policies, not personality,” she stated.
Despite concerns about Robinson’s chances, local Republican enthusiasm remains high, with attendees at the GOP dinner excited for the upcoming election.
Both candidates adhere closely to their party’s immigration narratives. Buckhout supports closing the border and the conservative border bill passed by House Republicans. She praised the “Remain in Mexico” policy from Trump’s administration, saying it was a “good start.” Meanwhile, Davis highlighted existing bipartisan proposals, arguing that Republicans have not taken the problem seriously enough. “There is legislation that we can refine and tune,” he said.
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