Donald Trump sharply criticized Vice President Kamala Harris during a rally in Prescott Valley, Arizona, on Sunday.

Trump accused Harris of failing to manage the U.S.-Mexico border and vowed to implement stringent immigration measures if he wins the 2024 election, suggesting that her conduct should be disqualifying in terms of the presidency, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Speaking to supporters in a state that shares a 370-mile border with Mexico, Trump blamed Harris for what he described as a crisis at the southern border, including the rise of migrant crime.  During the event, he expressed skepticism about Harris's ability to lead the nation, pointing to her immigration-related decisions as disqualifying factors for the presidency.

Trump Slams Harris on Border

The former president reiterated accusations that Harris was responsible for "importing criminal gangs." He portrayed both Harris and the current administration as architects of an immigration "occupation." These remarks served as a springboard for his assertion that immigration remains a critical issue in his campaign strategy.

Praising the National Border Patrol Council, which has given him an endorsement, Trump promised legislative support for increased pay and bonuses for Border Patrol agents. His proposals included a 10% pay raise and a $10,000 signing bonus, an incentive he linked to rectifying issues he claims arose under the Biden-Harris administration.

Harris has faced criticism from Republicans for her support of a bipartisan border bill, which failed in the Senate. The bill included funding for additional Customs and Border Protection staff. Harris's campaign, through spokesman Matt Corridoni, countered that Trump prevented potential solutions by obstructing the bill.

Accusations Fly

Amid record numbers of migrant encounters at the border, a situation Trump attributes to Democratic Party policies, the White House has seen a decrease in such figures due to a recent asylum order by Biden. Nevertheless, Trump has maintained that his administration managed to address border concerns without new legislation.

Corridoni criticized Trump's past promises, specifically his pledge to have Mexico finance a border wall -- a claim he states never materialized, leaving the taxpayer burdened instead. Furthermore, he accused Trump of undermining bipartisan efforts to secure the southern border.

While Harris has attempted to position herself as a candidate fostering change, differences from current presidential policies remain unclear. This strategic positioning on immigration issues mirrors Trump's successful 2016 campaign.

Trump Highlights Immigration Plan

During the rally, Trump presented news footage purporting to show Venezuelan gang activity in Colorado, a claim that local authorities dispute. He also announced "Operation Aurora," aimed at deporting immigrant gang members, citing the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 as legal backing.

The former president also expressed support for capital punishment for illegal immigrants who have committed serious crimes against Americans. Highlighting his tough stance on immigration, Trump mentioned his approval of Joe Arpaio, a former sheriff known for strict immigration policies.

Trump pledged to "rescue" Arizona and other parts of the country, painting a vivid picture of communities overrun by an "immigrant invasion." Arizona, as a pivotal battleground state, continues to host events featuring high-profile political figures, an indicator of the strategic importance it holds for both parties.

Trump Versus Harris in Polls

In RealClearPolitics polling averages, Trump holds a narrow 1-point lead over Harris in Arizona, suggesting competitive electoral dynamics. Trump emphasized the impact of his immigration-centered agenda, aware of its resonance with key voter demographics in the region.

Further, he declared the critical nature of protecting the country from what he sees as a deteriorating border situation, asserting, "I think the No. 1 issue is the destruction of our country, what's happened at the border."

The rally underscored his commitment to addressing immigration as a recurring theme of perceived national crisis, promising resolute actions upon potential re-election.

Despite challenges from divergent policy views, Trump has leveraged his past successes in managing border security issues as points of distinction, remaining a prominent figure in the ongoing debate over immigration.

As campaigning momentum builds in Arizona and beyond, significant attention continues to focus on the competing border policies of candidates aiming for national leadership in 2024.

Throughout the rally, Trump's rhetoric was strategically aimed at galvanizing support by highlighting prominent differences between his past and prospective immigration approaches compared to those of the current administration.

Both Trump and Harris continue to draw sharp contrasts in their visions for handling immigration policy, ensuring that this issue will persist as a decisive factor in forthcoming electoral contests.