The NPR Politics Podcast VP Harris Emphasizes Anti-Corruption In Trip To Guatemala, Mexico
Jun 9, 2021
Vice President Harris's visit to Guatemala and Mexico highlights the pressing issues of corruption and violence accelerating migration to the U.S. She emphasizes the need for regional development in her diplomatic journey. Meanwhile, infrastructure negotiations face hurdles as bipartisan talks stall, revealing deep-seated disagreements over funding and scope. The intricacies of reaching consensus among differing political perspectives add to the challenges of advancing key proposals.
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Biden's Anti-Corruption Intervention
- Then-Vice President Biden successfully intervened in 2015 to prevent Guatemala's president from dismantling a UN-backed anti-corruption commission.
- However, the commission was later eliminated during the Trump administration due to lack of U.S. support.
Corruption Concerns
- During a press conference, Guatemalan President Giammattei evaded a question about corruption until pressed by an American reporter in Spanish.
- Vice President Harris acknowledged a frank, private discussion about corruption with Giammattei.
Harris's "Do Not Come" Message
- Vice President Harris's statement "Do not come" to potential migrants generated criticism from figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who cited U.S. foreign policy's role in regional instability.
- Harris emphasized addressing root causes of migration as the trip's primary focus, deflecting direct criticism.