Afghan visa votes continue to impact Republicans in crucial 2026 races

In the chaotic final days of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, Representative Andy Barr, R-Ky., was a staunch advocate for resettling Afghan allies who had assisted American forces. At the time, he stated that the U.S. had a responsibility to help these individuals who risked their lives alongside American troops.

Now running for the Senate, Barrs past comments gained renewed attention after a recent attack in Washington, D.C., in which two National Guard members were shot, resulting in one death. Authorities identified the suspect as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan who had previously worked with U.S. forces in Afghanistan and came to the U.S. under a resettlement program. Lakanwal has pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder.

The incident has reignited debate over Afghan resettlement among Republican primary voters. Some GOP figures argue that admitting Afghan nationals poses risks, while others defend the humanitarian efforts. Nate Morris, a Republican primary rival of Barr, criticized Barrs earlier support for Afghan resettlement, asserting that politicians should prioritize American citizens over immigrants from nations with differing values.

This controversy is expected to affect other Republican races in 2026, including Senator John Cornyns re-election in Texas and gubernatorial contests in Florida and South Carolina. Immigration policy, including legal pathways for refugees, has become a divisive topic within the party. Conservative figures such as Vice President JD Vance have previously warned of potential security risks associated with resettling Afghan refugees.

Barr, like most House members at the time, had voted in July 2021 to expand special immigrant visas for Afghans who assisted U.S. forces, although the bill did not pass. Following the Washington, D.C. shooting, Barr emphasized his support for stronger vetting processes and praised efforts by former President Trump to address what he called Bidens mess.

Other Republican candidates are also navigating scrutiny over their past votes. Senator Cornyn, who supported earlier legislation for Afghan interpreters, highlighted concerns about vetting procedures under Bidens parole programs. In Kentucky, primary rivals debate whether past votes on visas align with voter priorities, with some calling for revocation of special Afghan immigrant visas.

In Florida, the topic has emerged in the GOP gubernatorial primary, where challengers have questioned incumbent Byron Donalds votes related to Afghan resettlement. Similarly, in South Carolina, Iowa, and Wisconsin, several Republican candidates face potential criticism for their 2021 support of Afghan visa programs.

Strategists suggest that the issue could play a significant role in Republican primaries, as voters scrutinize past immigration votes. While many House members acted before the chaotic withdrawal became fully apparent, challengers are using these votes to highlight differences within the party and appeal to a base focused on security and immigration.

Author: Aiden Foster