DSCC hopeful Gillibrand says Dems should have put immigration fix on table ‘2 years ago’
Join Fox News for access to exclusive content and premium articles for free by simply entering your email and agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., who is vying to lead the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) for the 2026 cycle, believes that Democrats have been slow to address the ongoing immigration crisis.
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Senator Gillibrand expressed her frustration with the delayed bipartisan efforts to tackle immigration issues. She emphasized the urgency of the situation, particularly for communities in New York that have been directly impacted by the crisis. Data from the Fox News Digital Voter Analysis after the 2024 election highlighted immigration as one of the most significant concerns among voters. When asked about reducing the number of immigrants seeking asylum, a majority of voters expressed support for stricter measures.
Despite attempts to address immigration through bipartisan legislation, the senator acknowledged the challenges faced in garnering support from both parties. Gillibrand underscored the importance of prioritizing the safety of children and combating issues such as fentanyl and gun trafficking. Reflecting on the 2024 election, she emphasized the need to address economic concerns and the rising cost of living to appeal to swing voters in red and purple areas.
Regarding abortion messaging in the upcoming election cycle, Gillibrand highlighted the importance of discussing the financial implications of healthcare decisions. She rejected the notion of identity politics as a primary factor in Democrat losses and emphasized the need for honesty and transparency in addressing divisive issues.
Looking ahead to the 2026 Senate cycle, Gillibrand expressed her commitment to supporting candidates at the grassroots level and engaging with voters early on. She cited her own experience in flipping a red House district to blue as evidence of her ability to lead successful campaigns. While she has not yet been officially chosen to lead the DSCC, Gillibrand has identified potential candidates, including North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, as strong contenders for flipping Senate seats to blue.
In conclusion, Senator Gillibrand acknowledged the challenges of regaining the Senate majority in 2026 but remained optimistic about the potential for success in future election cycles. She emphasized the importance of recruiting strong candidates and engaging with voters on critical issues to secure a Democratic majority in the Senate. Join Fox News for access to the latest updates on the 2026 election cycle and exclusive content from Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and other political leaders.
