The US Senate rejected sweeping immigration reforms for the second time this year, with Republicans blocking the toughest border security package in decades as Democrats accuse them of prioritizing partisan politics over the country.
Key Points
Republicans blocked the immigration reforms, dismissing them as a Democratic 'gimmick.'
Both sides had initially supported the Border Act, but it was killed by Republicans in February.
The bill aimed to address the record illegal crossings at the US-Mexico border.
Democrats accused Republicans of prioritizing partisan politics over national security.
The House passed a 'Secure the Border Act' which Republicans claim would end the crisis.
Pros
The Border Act aimed to enforce the toughest border security measures in history.
It involved reform of the asylum system, extra staffing at the southern border, and emergency powers to shut it down when necessary.
Cons
The bill failed to secure enough votes to overcome blocking tactics in the Senate.
There was a lack of bipartisan support for the sweeping immigration reforms.