Harris: Mark, great story, thank you very much.

Now, let’s get into our power panel discussion. Joining us are Matt Gorman, a former campaign advisor to Tim Scott and communications director for the Republican Congressional Committee, and Fred Hicks.

Fred, what are your thoughts on this new immigration program?

Fred Hicks: There’s no question that the immigration system needs reform. However, my concern is that this new “Gold Card” program replaces the EB-5 visa program, which was specifically designed to encourage investment in economically distressed communities. The EB-5 program required foreign investors to contribute to struggling areas, whereas this new plan seems to shift focus entirely. Now, instead of directing funds toward communities that need them most, it rewards wealthy businesses and individuals who can afford the $5 million price tag to enter the country. This is just another example of policies favoring the wealthy while neglecting those in need.

Harris: Matt, what’s your take?

Matt Gorman: We all agree that immigration should be handled legally, and this proposal provides a way to do that. It’s not just about bringing people in—it’s about contributing to economic growth. This program can broaden the tax base, increase workforce participation, and stimulate the economy. Some Democrats advocate for open borders, allowing people in without a structured process, which places a financial burden on city services. That’s unsustainable. Instead, we should be attracting top talent from around the world, encouraging them to stay, innovate, and build businesses in America.

Harris: Moving on—Democrats seem divided and searching for leadership. One congressman recently acknowledged that their messaging is alienating voters.

Congressman: The way we present ourselves turns people off. We lost elections across the board, meaning we’ve lost touch with the majority of Americans. We need to show we’re willing to listen and change.

Harris: Yet, no one seems to be stepping up as the clear leader of the party. Hakeem Jeffries, for example, dodged leadership questions when asked about it. Stephen A. Smith had strong words on the matter.

Stephen A. Smith: The Democratic Party needs to find someone who can lead. Right now, that person doesn’t exist. If they don’t identify a national voice soon, they’ll be in trouble.

Harris: Ouch. He doesn’t hold back. A recent ranking from The Washington Examiner listed AOC as a potential leader, along with others like businessman Mark Cuban and activist David Hogg. Matt, your thoughts?

Matt Gorman: Democrats talk about the need for change, but how? I sat on a panel with Seth Moulton discussing how issues like biological men competing in women’s sports are hurting their party. When I asked him whether they should change their stance or just the way they talk about it, he had no answer. That’s the problem. Leadership requires clear direction.

Hakeem Jeffries, frankly, lacks charisma. At least AOC, whether you agree with her or not, speaks like a real person and engages with people.

Harris: Fred, why are Democrats acting like a struggling football team with bad coaching?

Fred Hicks: Democrats are facing a disconnect between their voter base and elected officials. That’s undeniable. However, they do have an opportunity—Trump’s favorability ratings are at historic lows. If Democrats focus on economic issues instead of just social ones, they can regain ground. Addressing the national debt, for example, should involve rolling back Trump’s tax cuts rather than just cutting jobs.

Harris: Speaking of numbers, a recent poll showed Congressional Democrats at their lowest approval rating ever—just 21%. Meanwhile, Republicans hit a record high of 40%. With midterms approaching, Matt, your final thoughts?

Matt Gorman: Democrats need a strategy, not just tactics. Some, like Gavin Newsom, think starting a podcast is the answer. But real leadership means addressing crises like the wildfires in his state. Until Democrats develop a clear plan for the future, they’ll continue struggling.