The Dispatch Podcast Why Democrats Failed on Immigration | Roundtable
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Dec 19, 2025 
Join Kevin Williamson, a keen political analyst, Jonah Goldberg, a seasoned commentator, and Grayson Logue, an on-the-ground reporter from the U.S.–Mexico border, as they dissect the Biden administration's struggles with immigration. They explore Biden's indecision, misreadings of Latino dynamics, and compare current policies to Trump's rhetoric. Grayson shares firsthand accounts from Yuma, highlighting local frustrations. The discussion also touches on political shifts prompted by Governor Abbott and the impact of Susie Wiles' candid Vanity Fair interview.
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Biden's Immigration Lacked A Clear Goal
- The New York Times' long retrospective revealed Biden's immigration approach was rudderless and often political rather than policy-driven.
- Kevin Williamson and Jonah Goldberg argue the administration lacked a clear goal, producing drift and bad political outcomes.
Latino Voters Aren't Monolithic
- Latino voters are heterogeneous and Democrats misread their views on immigration.
- Williamson says assuming a monolithic Latino stance led Democrats to political missteps and lost support.
Staff Echo Chambers Create Policy Blind Spots
- Internal activist-driven staffing and media friendliness created blind spots in Biden's White House.
- Jonah Goldberg calls staff emissaries of interest groups who constrained candid debate and policymaking.