Democratic Senate candidate Sherrod Brown has stated support for closing the U.S.-Mexico border and deporting criminal immigrants, but Republicans argue his voting record contradicts these claims. Brown, a former three-term senator (2007-2025), is running in Ohio's Democratic primary for a Senate seat currently held by Republican Jon Husted.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Brown recently told an interviewer, "I support closing the border to people so they just can’t cross the border at will, but I also say we, of course, should be deporting people that have committed a crime, surely." However, Republicans point to his Senate and House voting record, which shows opposition to border security measures and deportation policies.
Deeper Dive & Context
Brown’s Voting Record on Immigration
Brown voted at least 10 times to protect federal funding for sanctuary cities from 2001 to 2024. He co-sponsored the 2019 End Mass Deportation Act, which sought to rescind Trump-era executive orders prioritizing deportation of criminal immigrants. He also voted against funding for ICE to detain and deport criminal aliens and opposed construction of a southern border wall, calling it "stupid," "wrong," and "ludicrous."
Republican Criticism
GOP officials argue Brown is attempting to rewrite his record ahead of the Ohio primary. They highlight his past opposition to Trump’s border policies, including funding for deportation and sanctuary city restrictions. Brown lost his Senate seat in 2024 to Republican Bernie Moreno and is now seeking a comeback.
Brown’s Campaign Response
Brown’s campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comment. His current stance on immigration remains unclear beyond his recent interview remarks.
Policy Implications
The discrepancy between Brown’s current statements and his voting record raises questions about his position on immigration enforcement. If elected, his approach to border security and deportation policies could differ significantly from his past legislative actions.